The 2024 Hermosa Seashore Open up sent a Unique style of magic, blending entire world-course athleticism Together with the down-to-earth spirit that defines the Beach front volleyball Group. Held September four–seven close to the Hermosa Beach front Pier, this year’s tournament wasn’t just a end to the aggressive circuit—it had been a celebration with the Activity’s origins, that includes Olympians competing shoulder to shoulder with soaring stars and native heroes inside of a fan-friendly, no-frills surroundings.
The occasion had no stadium seating or flashy lover zones. Instead, spectators collected round the courts, standing from the sand and sitting on Seashore towels since they cheered on elite athletes from just ft away. Arranged with grassroots help and backed by sponsors like Wedbush Securities, the Event returned to your purer version of the sport, in which Group, competition, and link were the main target.
Within the women’s aspect, Olympians Kelly Cheng and Sara Hughes reminded everyone why they’re viewed as among the ideal on the planet. In a very extraordinary all-USC last, Cheng and Hughes dropped the 1st established to Terese Cannon and Megan Kraft before roaring back to acquire the subsequent two. The determining established came right down to the wire, with Cheng and Hughes edging out a 20–18 win within a thrilling end. The victory marked a triumphant second within their submit-Olympic campaign and underscored their dominance heading into another AVP and Intercontinental situations.
The Adult men’s closing highlighted One more Olympic-caliber clash. Former NBA ahead turned beach volleyball standout Chase Budinger teamed up with Olympic veteran Miles Evans to face off from Miles Partain and Alex Ranghieri. Budinger and Evans proved way too potent, successful in straight sets, 21–14 and 21–17. Budinger’s physicality at The online and Evans’ Sodo66 sharp instincts designed them the unstoppable duo on the weekend.
Throughout four times of Perform, a hundred thirty groups competed in the double-elimination structure that stored admirers on their toes and athletes grinding by lengthy, Sunshine-soaked times. The Event also integrated a juniors division, which brought in many youthful gamers eager to discover, compete, and share the sand Together with the execs. It absolutely was a rare opportunity for youth athletes for being Component of A serious volleyball celebration and a beneficial recruiting moment for faculty programs in attendance.
An entire Picture gallery captured the essence with the Match—from high-traveling spikes and gritty digs to peaceful moments of focus and laughter among the teammates. These visuals, commonly shared on the web, helped showcase the beauty and intimacy of your sport in its most reliable environment.
With its achievement, the Hermosa Seashore Open has sparked discussion about its potential. Town leaders are exploring a design similar to Manhattan Seaside, where the municipality could just take a bigger function in internet hosting the Event each year. There’s also A much bigger intention in sight: Hermosa is actively positioning itself to become a designated education site for your 2028 La Olympics.
The 2024 Hermosa Seashore Open was additional than simply a Match. It had been an announcement—proof that even in an era of massive contracts and international broadcasts, beach volleyball’s heart nonetheless beats strongest inside the sand, surrounded by Neighborhood.