Disc Golf’s Highest Honor
Four members of the Innova family will be inducted into the World Disc Golf Hall of Fame as part of the Class of 2026: Jennifer Allen, Carlos Rio, Jonathan Poole, and Kevin McCoy.
Their contributions span nearly every corner of the sport, including elite competition, event leadership, course design, player development, and growing disc golf around the world.
Jennifer Allen
Jennifer Allen has been one of the most accomplished competitors in FPO for more than two decades. A longtime Team Innova athlete and one of the team’s two captains, Allen earned multiple Elite Series victories while becoming one of the longest throwers in the history of the women’s game.
In 2016, Allen set the women’s World Distance Record with a throw of 569 feet, a mark that stands to this day. She has also won six Masters Major championships while continuing to compete against the world’s best in FPO. Along with her success on the course, Allen has become one of the sport’s most respected ambassadors, mentoring younger touring professionals and helping many players adjust to life on tour.
Jonathan Poole
Jonathan Poole has spent decades with Innova helping shape the modern era of disc golf. Jonathan helped create the United States Disc Golf Championship and transform it into one of the sport’s premier events through innovative media, sponsorship, fan experiences, and event presentation.
A visionary promoter, Jonathan has continually found new ways to elevate championship week. From expanding the spectator experience to launching the Fresh & Now concert series during USDGC week, his ideas have helped turn the event into far more than a tournament. His influence extends well beyond Rock Hill, helping raise the profile of professional disc golf for players, spectators, and fans around the world.
When the World Disc Golf Hall of Fame needed a new home for its induction ceremony in 2020, Jonathan welcomed the organization to Rock Hill with a simple response: “Come to Rock Hill and we’ll figure it out.” That willingness to step up whenever the sport needs it has defined Jonathan’s career.
Carlos Rio
Carlos Rio has spent more than four decades growing disc golf throughout Europe. A many-time PDGA champion, player, coach, tournament organizer, course designer, and ambassador, he has played a leading role in developing the sport in both Spain and Norway.
Designing courses, directing tournaments, coaching players, and working across four languages, Carlos has helped build the foundation for disc golf across Europe. His work has introduced the sport to new communities while helping fuel its continued growth throughout the continent.
Kevin McCoy
Kevin McCoy has made an impact on nearly every part of the game. Along with more than 200 career victories, he has spent decades designing courses, directing tournaments, promoting the sport, and mentoring new players.
Kevin is also recognized for helping establish sanctioned disc golf leagues, giving countless players another pathway into organized competition. His work as a course designer, ambassador, tournament director, and advocate has helped grow the game throughout the Southeast and across the country.
Congratulations, Class of 2026
Joining Allen, Jonathan Poole, Carlos, and Kevin McCoy in the Class of 2026 is Mark Ellis, who was recognized for decades of contributions as a competitor, instructor, course designer, author, and educator.
Congratulations to Jennifer Allen, Carlos Rio, Jonathan Poole, Kevin McCoy, and Mark Ellis on their induction into the World Disc Golf Hall of Fame.
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