The winners of the 17th Annual SUPconnect Awards have been announced, celebrating some of the standout athletes, young paddlers, brands and retailers from across the global stand up paddleboarding community. Following more than six weeks of voting and evaluation, the 2026 awards considered public votes alongside SUPconnect's key criteria of Ambassadorship, Involvement, Performance and Support, with input also coming from its advisory board, retailers, industry professionals and editorial team.
Man of the Year – Campbell Carter
At just 18 years old, Campbell Carter takes the 2026 Man of the Year title following an impressive season on the international racing scene.
The young American earned selection to the 2026–27 USA Surfing National Team, finished runner-up in the Men’s Open 10K at the USA Surfing Championships and claimed the overall Men’s SUP Distance and Technical titles in the inaugural USA Surfing SUP Series.
Carter also received the People’s Choice award following strong support in the public vote.
Woman of the Year – Maddi LeBlanc
Canada’s Maddi LeBlanc has been named Woman of the Year after another strong season competing internationally and continuing her role as one of the sport’s leading ambassadors.
A two-time Canadian National Champion, LeBlanc has continued to compete amongst the world’s top paddlers while playing an active role in promoting and growing the sport. She also topped the public voting to receive the People’s Choice award in the women’s category.
Grom of the Year – Matei Barbu
Romania’s Matei Barbu takes the Grom of the Year award after another standout year.
Already an ICF Junior World Champion, Barbu added two U18 victories at the 2026 ICF SUP Junior International Cup and continues to establish himself as one of the leading young racers coming through the international SUP scene.
He also claimed the People’s Choice Grom of the Year award.
Brand of the Year – Starboard
Starboard has been named the 2026 SUPconnect Brand of the Year.
The award recognises the brand’s continued presence across multiple areas of stand up paddling, from product development and racing to its support of athletes, events, retailers and the wider SUP community.
It was a particularly successful year for Starboard in the SUPconnect Gear of the Year awards too, with the Starboard GO winning Best All-Around SUP and the AllStar taking Best Race SUP.
Shop of the Year – Riverbound Sports
Riverbound Sports takes the 2026 Shop of the Year title.
The Arizona-based paddle sports retailer was recognised for its longstanding involvement in the paddling community, industry expertise and continued support of stand up paddleboarding.
Congratulations to all of the 2026 winners and nominees!
You can see the full results, runners-up and more information about this year’s awards over on SUPconnect below.