Supconnect Awards: The People's Choice 2024

San Diego, CALIFORNIA - Before we announce the winners of the 15th annual Supconnect Awards, we want to recognize those who received the most votes in the People's Choice Awards. These individuals had strong support from their friends, family, and the SUP community, and we want to give them special recognition for their efforts.

The official winners of the Supconnect Awards (to be announced soon) are selected based on criteria such as Ambassadorship, Involvement, Performance, and Support. To determine the winners of these awards, we follow a rigorous process that involves consulting our advisory board, comprised of individuals deeply involved in the sport of standup paddling. We also consider feedback from fans, consumers, our editorial board, and industry brands and retailers. You can find more details about our Awards history and selection process here.

Without further ado, here are the People's Choice from the 2024 Supconnect Awards.

Man of the Year

Donato Freens

At just 18 years old, Donato Freens from the Netherlands is making waves in the global SUP race scene with a string of impressive achievements. His dedication and hunger for success have been evident in every event he competes in. Recently, Freens secured the 3rd overall position on the Euro Tour 2023 and clinched the title of junior vice world champion at the ISA World Championships in France. Now transitioning into the Open Men’s category, Freens is poised to continue his ascent and carve out a name for himself among the sport’s elite competitors.  

Woman of the Year

Sarah Thornely

Sarah ‘SUPJunkie’ Thornely is an ex-GB Women’s Champion and has selflessly supported the sport since she retired from the UK race scene. She took on varied responsibilities and continues to present live streaming of the GB SUP National Series and a large number of other international and UK-based events. She writes knowledgeably and coordinates contributions to support SUP Media publications in the UK while being an advocate for new brands, events, and racers both in the UK and internationally. Sarah is a passionate role model and supporter of the sport and has given her time generously for years to not only build up the vibrant racing scene but to contribute to all flavors and levels of SUP and is the face of the sport and the biggest and most effective advocate of the sport in the UK.

Grom of the Year

Csillag Kocsis

Csillag Kocsis is a standout talent in stand-up paddling. At the 2023 ICF World Championship in Thailand, she earned a silver medal in the technical category and a bronze in long-distance in the junior class. She also placed 5th in junior technical and 7th in open sprint at the ISA World Championship in France last year. Recently, Csillag won the junior ECA European Championship in Hungary, solidifying her status as a rising star in the sport.

Brand of the Year

Starboard

Starboard is one of the most globally known SUP companies in the world. Starboard was founded and created by Svein Rasmussen, a champion windsurfer, in 1994. Starboard SUP is one of the leading innovators of Stand Up Paddling, with some of the most comprehensive range of shapes and technology options! You will find many of the top athletes in the SUP space riding a Starboard SUP, whether it be World Champion SUP racers Connor Baxter, Noic Garioud, Michael Booth, and Fiona Wylde, or SUP surfing Pro Champion Zane Schweitzer. Starboard has a wide array of products ranging from expert levels to beginner boards and everything in between.

Shop of the Year

The Goat Boater

Engaged in the growth & development of SUP as a sport both internationally and on a grassroots level. Consistently engages the community with SUP Education and events. Works with outside organizations consulting on community fundraising events revolving around SUP. Expertise in SUP brands. Committed to the SUPKids program by providing eco-initiatives to our youth and teaching the importance of clean water & protecting our waterways. Fostering an appreciation, respect & understanding for the environment in our youth in turn growing their passion for nature & SUP.

Sales Rep of the Year

Brent Ackland

Brent is a great combination of great character and sportsmanship, and he is an honest Infinity Paddleboard brand sales representative. He is very knowledgeable in the technical aspects of the paddling gear and gives valuable advice on choosing and using it. He makes himself available and is very prompt with assistance. He goes above and beyond to provide the right information and gear so that people can enjoy the activity and conditions that they have chosen. Brent is an important supporter of safe, fun paddleboarding for fitness in our community. He also supports competitive paddleboarding training and events at local, national, and international levels. He is a great coach! Our Ontario-based Infinity SpeedFreaks team is nominating Brent Ackland as the best sales representative of the year!