The 2026 United Aqua Group (UAG) Annual Conference was one for the books — and even more special because it took place right here in our backyard at the Sawgrass Marriott Golf Resort & Spa in Ponte Vedra Beach.
Each year, UAG brings together some of the top pool builders, service companies, and industry leaders from across the country. It’s a week filled with education sessions, trade show networking, collaboration, and celebration of the very best work in the pool and outdoor living industry.
For Clarkson Pools, this year’s conference was both professionally rewarding and personally meaningful.
Clarkson Pools’ 2026 Awards of Distinction
We were honored to be recognized across multiple categories in the 2026 UAG Awards of Distinction (63rd Anniversary Edition) — including awards in residential, renovation, commercial, and marketing excellence.
Jandy Pool of the Year
The Jandy Pool of the Year award highlights a project that demonstrates outstanding craftsmanship, thoughtful design, and advanced pool technology.
Small Commercial – Bronze
Goldfish Swim School
This project highlights our ability to deliver specialized aquatic environments, supporting safe and engaging swim education spaces for the community.
Small Commercial – Bronze
Artea at Southbank
Our commercial team was recognized for Artea at Southbank, a standout amenity project that reflects our continued growth in commercial construction and large-scale developments.
Residential Concrete – Silver
The Ocean Edge
This award celebrates craftsmanship, design precision, and attention to detail in one of our premier residential builds.
Residential Concrete – Bronze
Serenity Edge
Another residential design that reflects Clarkson Quality in both form and function.
Renovation – Silver
Riverfront Revival
This project showcased the transformation power of thoughtful renovation — elevating an existing space into something entirely new.
Renovation – Bronze
The Ivy Edge
This renovation demonstrates how careful design and updated materials can refresh an existing pool environment while preserving the character of the original space.
Renovation – Bronze
Evening Ember
This project highlights how lighting, finishes, and architectural elements can completely transform the atmosphere of a backyard retreat.
Best Website – Gold
ClarksonPools.com
We were especially proud to earn Gold for Best Website — recognizing the strategic redesign and launch of ClarksonPools.com.
A Historic Moment: John Clarkson Receives Lifetime Achievement Award
The most meaningful highlight of the week came during the gala when UAG honored our founder, John Clarkson, with a Lifetime Achievement Award.
John has been part of United Aqua Group for 25 years and has played a significant role in strengthening collaboration and elevating standards within the organization.
For our team, this recognition represents more than a trophy. It represents:
- 35 years of Clarkson Quality
- Commitment to craftsmanship
- Integrity in business
- Investment in relationships
- Leadership within the pool industry
From starting as Pools by John Clarkson to becoming Clarkson Pools, his influence continues to shape who we are today.
This moment was not just about honoring a career — it was about celebrating a legacy.
Education, Collaboration & Industry Growth
Beyond the awards, the conference provided invaluable time for:
- Connecting with industry partners
- Exploring new technologies and materials
- Learning from fellow top builders across the country
- Sharing best practices in design, construction, service, and marketing
Events like UAG are powerful because they remind us that while we compete locally, we collaborate nationally to elevate the entire industry.
Proud of Our Team
Several Clarkson team members attended the trade show and educational sessions throughout the week, representing our company with professionalism and enthusiasm.
Awards are exciting — but what makes them possible is the dedication of our designers, project managers, field crews, service professionals, and leadership team.
Looking Ahead
As we celebrate 35 years in business, recognition like this reinforces our mission:
To deliver Clarkson Quality in form, function, and final product — every single time.
We are grateful to United Aqua Group for the honor, proud of our team, and excited for what’s ahead in 2026 and beyond.
If you’re considering building or renovating a pool in Northeast Florida, we would love to help you create something award-worthy of your own.