By SDCN Editor
San Diego, CA–In a glittering evening of recognition and celebration, Sports San Diego announced the winners of the Rising Tide Awards at their inaugural Game Time Gala.
This event, held to honor outstanding contributions from organizations and individuals in 2023 and 2024, highlighted the significant impact of sports events on the local tourism and hospitality sectors.
Hosted by Sports San Diego, a non-profit organization renowned for producing prominent events such as the DIRECTV Holiday Bowl, Rady Children’s Invitational, and the California State Games, the gala spotlighted the organization’s role as the region’s sports commission.
“We’re excited to announce our first winners of the Rising Tide Awards,” said Mark Neville, CEO of Sports San Diego. “Sports events have been a pillar of the tourism industry in San Diego for decades. Even recently, San Diego has attracted some of the largest events and most iconic brands in the world including the World Surf League, World Lacrosse Championships, Manchester United, New Zealand All Blacks, and Breeders’ Cup, to name a few.”
The event underscored the vital connection between sports and the economic vitality of San Diego, celebrating those who have significantly contributed to making the city a prime destination for high-profile sports events.
2024 Rising Tide Award Winners:
• Best Marketing Campaign – San Diego Wave, 2024 Jersey Kit Release
• Allied Partner of the Year – Rady Children’s Hospital-San Diego
• Impact Player of the Year – Ryan Patterson, Owner, San Diego Legion
• Venues of the Year– Snapdragon Stadium and Barnes Tennis Center
• Special Event of Year – Concacaf Women’s Gold Cup
The event underscored the vital connection between sports and the economic vitality of San Diego, celebrating those who have significantly contributed to making the city a prime destination for high-profile sports events.