top of page

Celebrating Southern
Whitewater Heritage

Conceived in 2021 by Mike Fischesser as part of the Southern Appalachian Paddlesports Museum—and now an independent organization—the Hall of Fame is led by paddlers who are passionate about the region’s whitewater heritage.

 

Our mission is to preserve the stories and honor the individuals and organizations whose leadership and achievements have shaped the sport and its history in the region.

Juanita and Roy Guinn - Hall of Fame Class of 2024

How Induction Works

  • Who Can Nominate: Anyone in the paddling community-paddlers, guides, club leaders, advocates, conservation groups​​

  • Frequency: Biennial (every two years in even-numbered years)

  • ​Typical Class: About six individuals and one institution whose impacts have stood the test of time.

  • Regional Focus: The Southern Appalachian Mountain Regions of TN, NC, SC, GA, and AL

Adriene Levknecht - Hall of Fame Class of 2021

Nominations close

May 31, 2026.

 

​

​
Induction Celebration & Dinner: Woodfin, NC September 12, 2026.

Every class protects and amplifies the stories of innovators, leaders, pioneers, and role models who have moved our sport forward - on the river and in the community.

Joe Pulliam - Hall of Fame Class of 2021

Board of Directors

  • Anna Levesque

  • Ethan Talley

  • Joe Pulliam

  • John Burton

  • Marc Hunt

  • Shane Benedict

Selection Committee

  • Anna Levesque

  • Ethan Talley

  • Roger Nott

  • Shane Benedict

The Hall of Fame from time-to-time seeks volunteers to serve

 on these committees.  Please contact us if there is interest.

©2025 by Southern Appalachian Whitewater Hall of Fame

  • Facebook
  • LinkedIn
bottom of page