Each year, the ACA presents a series of prestigious national awards to individuals and organizations who have illustrated exemplary leadership, service, and dedication to various aspects of paddlesports.
Excellence in Instruction: The prestigious Excellence in Instruction Award is presented to an ACA member for his or her outstanding contribution to paddlesports education and instruction. The recipients names are placed on a perpetual plaque that is prominently displayed in the ACA National Office.
Event of the Year: Presented to the top ACA sanctioned event as nominated by the paddling public.
Green Paddle for Waterway Conservation: Presented annually to an individual or a group that has made an outstanding contribution to paddlesports by protecting America’s waterways.
Joe Pina Volunteer of the Year: Presented to one or more volunteers each year for extraordinary service at the local, regional or national level.
J. Henry Rushton for Organizational Excellence: Presented annually to an organization or other group for outstanding achievements in advancing paddlesports and the mission of the ACA.
Havens Leadership Award: The Havens Leadership Award rewards individuals whose practices and behaviors best serve the interests and success of USA paddlesports athletes.
Legends of Paddling: Presented to one or more individuals each year for their legendary contributions to paddlesport. Recipients of this prestigious award will be inducted into the ACA Paddlesport Hall of Fame.