The 2024 Hermosa Beach front Open up delivered a Distinctive sort of magic, Mixing world-class athleticism with the down-to-earth spirit that defines the Seaside volleyball Local community. Held September four–7 near the Hermosa Seashore Pier, this 12 months’s Event wasn’t merely a halt over the aggressive circuit—it absolutely was a celebration of your Activity’s origins, that includes Olympians competing shoulder to shoulder with mounting stars and native heroes in a very lover-friendly, no-frills surroundings.
The occasion had no stadium seating or flashy lover zones. Instead, spectators collected throughout the courts, standing while in the sand and sitting on Seashore towels because they cheered on elite athletes from just toes away. Structured with grassroots assist and backed by sponsors like Wedbush Securities, the tournament returned to the purer Edition of the sport, the place Neighborhood, Competitors, and link were the main focus.
On the Women of all ages’s side, Olympians Kelly Cheng and Sara Hughes reminded everyone why they’re regarded Amongst the ideal in the world. In the extraordinary all-USC final, Cheng and Hughes dropped the initial set to Terese Cannon and Megan Kraft ahead of roaring back again to acquire the following two. The choosing set arrived all the way down to the wire, with Cheng and Hughes edging out a twenty–18 acquire in the thrilling end. The victory marked a triumphant second within their submit-Olympic campaign and underscored their dominance heading into another AVP and Intercontinental gatherings.
The Adult men’s ultimate featured A further Olympic-caliber clash. Previous NBA forward turned Seashore volleyball standout Chase Budinger teamed up with Olympic veteran Miles Evans to deal with off in opposition to Miles Partain and Alex Ranghieri. Budinger and Evans proved also effective, profitable in straight sets, 21–14 and 21–seventeen. Budinger’s physicality at the net and Evans’ sharp instincts built them the unstoppable duo on the weekend.
Throughout four days of play, one hundred thirty groups competed within a double-elimination structure that kept enthusiasts on their own toes and athletes grinding by means of extensive, Sunlight-soaked days. The Event also integrated a juniors division, which brought in many hundreds of young players desirous to study, contend, and share the sand Using the professionals. It had been a scarce opportunity for youth athletes for Sodo66 being Component of An important volleyball party and a beneficial recruiting moment for college applications in attendance.
A full Image gallery captured the essence of your Match—from significant-flying spikes and gritty digs to quiet times of emphasis and laughter amongst teammates. These pictures, widely shared on line, aided showcase the splendor and intimacy in the Activity in its most authentic location.
With its good results, the Hermosa Beach Open has sparked discussion about its long term. Metropolis leaders are Checking out a model just like Manhattan Beach, the place the municipality could take a larger purpose in web hosting the tournament each year. There’s also A much bigger goal in sight: Hermosa is actively positioning itself to become a designated teaching website to the 2028 La Olympics.
The 2024 Hermosa Seashore Open up was extra than simply a Event. It absolutely was a press release—evidence that even in an era of massive contracts and international broadcasts, beach volleyball’s heart still beats strongest within the sand, surrounded by community.