Sveva Sabato x NSP: On a Mission to Become Junior World Champion

At just 15 years old, Sveva Sabato is already making a name for herself on the global SUP Race scene and has just earned her first international open women’s podium at the World SUP Festival in Spain. Based in Taranto, a coastal city in southern Italy’s Apulia region, Sveva trains with the Sup Academy Taranto under the guidance of longtime coach Mario Tagarelli. Surrounded by a strong team, including 2 x junior world champion Claudia Postiglione, Velia Pisanelli, and her brother Serse Sabato, she’s been immersed in stand-up paddling since the age of six, and is now one of the most exciting young athletes to watch. Signing with NSP marks an exciting new chapter in Sveva’s young career. Becoming part of the NSP family is a dream come true for her. With the strength of a world-class brand behind her, she’s poised to chase bigger goals and make an even greater impact on the global SUP scene.

Picture: Mario Tagarelli

Hi Sveva! First off, congratulations on your incredible result in Santa Pola: 5th in the Open Women’s category and 1st in Juniors! How did that moment feel for you, and what does it mean to you?

Thank you so much! It was such an extraordinary moment, especially because it was my first time lining up at the start next to world-class athletes. When the race ended, I didn’t even realize I had placed 5th, it was such a surprise! Once it hit me, I was beyond excited. To be on the podium with some of the strongest women in SUP was a dream come true.

Picture: World SUP Festival

At just 15 years old, you’re already turning heads on the international SUP scene. When did your passion for stand-up paddling begin, and what inspired you to take it seriously?

I started paddling when I was around 6 or 7 years old, just for fun. Then, about three years ago, I decided to take the competitive path thanks to my coach, Mario Tagarelli. He has always supported and trained our whole team to improve. What pushed me to take it seriously was my deep love for the sport and the sea, but also the energy and motivation I get from being part of such a competitive and inspiring team.

Picture: @maximiliano_alberti_photo

You recently signed with NSP – congratulations! What does it mean to you to become part of such a respected brand in the SUP world?

I’m truly honored to be part of the NSP family. It’s a brand I’ve always admired, especially over the past few years since I started using the Ninja 14×20 2023 board and the Speedster 81 paddle with the Stick Carbon 29 shaft. Their equipment gives me confidence and helps me perform at my best.

Picture: NSP

Some weeks ago, you won the overall women’s title at the Water Festival in Italy – congrats! How did you prepare for that race, both mentally and physically?

Thank you! Physically, my coach Mario helped me prepare in every way, both on the water and with dry training. Mentally, I tried to stay as focused as possible and not let anxiety take over. I worked on keeping a positive mindset and clearing my head from any distractions. The one thing I kept telling myself during the race was literally: “Paddle, paddle harder!”

Every young athlete has their heroes. Who are the SUP athletes you look up to the most, and how have they influenced your development?

All the women in this sport inspire me in different ways every single day. When I was younger, my biggest role model was Fiona Wylde. Now, the paddlers I really look up to are Csillag Kocsis, Esperanza Barreras, Mariecarmen Rivera, and Duna Gordillo. They represent the level I aim to reach one day.

Picture: Euro Tour

Balancing school, training, and international competitions can’t be easy. How do you manage your time and stay focused both on and off the water?

It’s definitely not easy! I try to plan my weekends well, so I can study and avoid falling too far behind in school. Of course, there are still nights when I have to stay up late to study. But I believe sacrifices are necessary if you want to reach your goals. Thankfully, my family supports me a lot, both with school and in sport.

Picture: @maximiliano_alberti_photo

Looking ahead, what are your biggest goals for the rest of the 2025 season? Are there any specific races or milestones you’re aiming for?

The most important races coming up for me, if I’m selected again, are the ICF World Championships in Abu Dhabi and the ISA World Championships. My biggest goal is to win the junior world title.

Picture: @maximiliano_alberti_photo

You’re already inspiring a new generation of young paddlers. What advice would you give to others your age who dream of competing at the highest level one day?

Have fun! Because if you’re not enjoying it, you’ll lose your passion. And never give up, even when it feels like you’re not improving. Just keep going. In the end, effort and consistency always pay off.

Follow Sveva’s journey on Instagram.

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