Barstool Sports mourns the untimely death of one of its vibrant employees, Iga Obrycka, who served as the general manager of Barstool Nashville. The 28-year-old’s passing, reported to have occurred earlier this week, has left many within the company and the community heartbroken. Her unexpected death on January 29, 2025, came as a shock, and details surrounding the cause are still unclear.
Dave Portnoy, the founder and president of Barstool Sports, took to social media to express his grief, sharing the news with his followers. “More sad news in Barstool Family. We suddenly lost Iga Obrycka this week. Iga basically ran our Bar group for us. If you ever went to Barstool Nashville you probably saw her there. I would have hired her for any position she wanted at our company because she was smart and driven. Just incredibly sad news and another cruel reminder not to take a minute for granted. RIP Iga,” he wrote on X/Twitter. This heartfelt message reflects the deep appreciation and respect Portnoy had for Obrycka and her contributions to the team.
Obrycka was described as the heart and soul of Barstool Nashville, with colleagues and friends praising her leadership and personal impact. Barstool Nashville’s tribute emphasized her significance within the team, stating, “We lost the leader, heart, and soul of Barstool Nashville, Iga Obrycka.” They planned to hold a celebration of her life when the time is right, ensuring her memory would live on forever.
Born in Poland, Iga and her family immigrated to the United States during the early 2000s. After spending her formative years in New York City, where she managed venues and events for the Tao Group Hospitality for nearly nine years, she moved to Nashville during the COVID-19 pandemic. Her transition to Nashville included roles at Twelve Thirty Club, where she first worked as the reservation manager, and later became the membership director.
After realizing the conventional 9-5 lifestyle wasn't for her, Obrycka pursued her passions for sports and pop culture, opening Barstool Nashville on June 23, 2023, which quickly became popular under her guidance. It was noted by colleagues how under her leadership, the Barstool Nashville Instagram page gained 63,000 followers, and she also served as the chief marketing officer for Stanton and Bowery Hospitality.
Cameron Morris, one of Obrycka’s close friends, shared her sentiments about the loss. “Best partner in crime to explore a new city with and do it all 'working.' Opening Scottsdale with you was a dream, the amount of laughs were unmatched and the late nights will never be forgotten. Life’s not fair,” Morris reflected on her Instagram post, showcasing the fond memories they shared together. Another friend, Brian Vo, added, “Thank you for being an amazing person Iga. It’s a sad loss and devastating tragedy for everyone.”
The news of Obrycka's sudden passing has generated waves of support and condolences on various social media platforms. Commentators shared their sentiments, stating, “Thoughts and Prayers to the families and friends impacted.” Many expressed how much they felt the loss of such a wonderful person. “Keeping Iga’s close friends and family in my thoughts. Rest in peace to an awesome human,” remarked one user, showing the widespread impact she had on those around her.
Even after her death, Iga Obrycka’s story has continued to resonate within the Barstool community, capturing hearts through shared memories and tributes. Under her management, Barstool Nashville flourished, and many saw her as not just the general manager, but also as someone who embodied the spirit of the establishment.
USA Funeral Home’s obituary captured her essence poignantly, stating, “Her sudden passing created a deep empty space in every soul with whom she came in contact. For so many, she had been much more than just a businesswoman; she was a very good friend, mentor, and lamp of kindness and generosity in their community.”
Such tributes paint the picture of not only Obrycka’s professional accomplishments but also the warmth she extended to those around her. Through her tenacity, enthusiasm, and talent, Iga Obrycka left behind not only memories but also a considerable legacy at Barstool Nashville.
The loss of Iga Obrycka is felt deeply across various facets of the Barstool community, from friends and colleagues to fans. While the details surrounding her passing remain sparse, the tributes and heartfelt remembrances affirm the powerful impact she had during her time with Barstool Sports. she will be remembered not just as the general manager of Barstool Nashville, but as a cherished member of the Barstool family.