The 2024 Hermosa Beach Open shipped a Specific kind of magic, blending environment-class athleticism with the down-to-earth spirit that defines the Seaside volleyball Group. Held September four–7 near the Hermosa Beach Pier, this yr’s Match wasn’t merely a stop about the aggressive circuit—it absolutely was a celebration from the sport’s origins, that includes Olympians competing shoulder to shoulder with mounting stars and native heroes inside a enthusiast-helpful, no-frills environment.
The occasion experienced no stadium seating or flashy admirer zones. As a substitute, spectators collected within the courts, standing in the sand and sitting on beach towels as they cheered on elite athletes from just feet absent. Structured with grassroots support and backed by sponsors like Wedbush Securities, the tournament returned to a purer version of the sport, where by Group, Competitors, and connection were the focus.
On the women’s facet, Olympians Kelly Cheng and Sara Hughes reminded Anyone why they’re thought of Amongst the finest on the earth. In a very spectacular all-USC last, Cheng and Hughes dropped the very first established to Terese Cannon and Megan Kraft in advance of roaring back again to get another two. The determining set arrived right down to the wire, with Cheng and Hughes edging out a 20–eighteen get in a thrilling complete. The victory marked a triumphant second inside their put up-Olympic marketing campaign and underscored their dominance heading into the following AVP and international gatherings.
The Gentlemen’s final showcased Yet another Olympic-caliber clash. Previous NBA forward turned Beach front volleyball standout Chase Budinger teamed up with Olympic veteran Miles Evans to confront off against Miles Partain and Alex Ranghieri. Budinger and Evans proved way too potent, profitable in straight sets, 21–14 and 21–17. Budinger’s physicality at The online and Evans’ sharp instincts created them the unstoppable duo of your weekend.
Across 4 times of Perform, a hundred thirty groups competed within a double-elimination structure that kept enthusiasts on their own toes and athletes grinding by means of extensive, sun-soaked days. The Match also included a juniors division, which brought in many youthful players desirous to study, contend, and share the sand Using the professionals. It absolutely was a scarce chance for youth athletes to get Element of a major volleyball occasion plus a important recruiting instant for college applications in attendance.
A full Photograph gallery captured the essence from the Event—from high-flying spikes and gritty digs to quiet moments of concentrate and laughter amongst teammates. These photos, broadly shared on the web, aided showcase the magnificence and intimacy of your Activity in its most genuine placing.
With its accomplishment, the Hermosa Seashore Open has sparked conversation about its future. Town leaders are Checking out a design much like Manhattan Beach, exactly where Sodo66 the municipality could consider a bigger purpose in internet hosting the tournament yearly. There’s also An even bigger intention in sight: Hermosa is actively positioning by itself to become a selected teaching web-site to the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics.
The 2024 Hermosa Beach front Open up was a lot more than simply a Match. It was a press release—proof that even within an era of big contracts and world broadcasts, Seashore volleyball’s heart however beats strongest while in the sand, surrounded by community.