The 2024 Hermosa Seashore Open up delivered a special sort of magic, Mixing world-course athleticism While using the down-to-earth spirit that defines the Beach front volleyball Neighborhood. Held September 4–7 near the Hermosa Beach Pier, this yr’s Match wasn’t only a end about the competitive circuit—it absolutely was a celebration with the sport’s origins, featuring Olympians competing shoulder to shoulder with mounting stars and local heroes in a lover-helpful, no-frills natural environment.
The occasion experienced no stadium seating or flashy supporter zones. Alternatively, spectators collected throughout the courts, standing within the sand and sitting on Beach front towels as they cheered on elite athletes from just toes absent. Organized with grassroots aid and backed by sponsors like Wedbush Securities, the tournament returned to your purer Edition of the sport, where Local community, Levels of competition, and relationship were the focus.
Within the Women of all ages’s facet, Olympians Kelly Cheng and Sara Hughes reminded Every person why they’re viewed as Amongst the greatest in the world. In the extraordinary all-USC last, Cheng and Hughes dropped the main set to Terese Cannon and Megan Kraft prior to roaring back to win the next two. The choosing set came down to the wire, with Cheng and Hughes edging out a 20–18 get in a thrilling complete. The victory marked a triumphant second in their write-up-Olympic campaign and underscored their dominance heading into the next AVP and Intercontinental gatherings.
The Guys’s final showcased One more Olympic-caliber clash. Former NBA forward turned Beach front volleyball standout Chase Budinger teamed up with Olympic veteran Miles Evans to experience off against Miles Partain and Alex Ranghieri. Budinger and Evans proved much too highly effective, profitable in straight sets, 21–14 and 21–17. Budinger’s physicality at The web and Evans’ sharp instincts made them the unstoppable duo with the weekend.
Across four times of Perform, one hundred thirty groups competed within a double-elimination structure that stored lovers on their toes and athletes Sodo66 grinding by way of long, Sunlight-soaked times. The Event also integrated a juniors division, which introduced in many hundreds of young players wanting to learn, compete, and share the sand While using the pros. It had been a exceptional option for youth athletes for being Section of An important volleyball event as well as a worthwhile recruiting instant for faculty programs in attendance.
A full photo gallery captured the essence in the Match—from substantial-traveling spikes and gritty digs to tranquil times of emphasis and laughter between teammates. These visuals, widely shared online, helped showcase the elegance and intimacy in the sport in its most authentic setting.
With its success, the Hermosa Beach Open up has sparked discussion about its long run. Metropolis leaders are Discovering a model comparable to Manhattan Beach front, wherever the municipality could acquire a larger part in hosting the Event per year. There’s also A much bigger aim in sight: Hermosa is actively positioning itself to be a specified coaching site with the 2028 La Olympics.
The 2024 Hermosa Seaside Open up was far more than just a Event. It had been a statement—evidence that even in an period of big contracts and global broadcasts, Seashore volleyball’s heart continue to beats strongest from the sand, surrounded by Neighborhood.