The 2024 Hermosa Beach Open up delivered a special sort of magic, Mixing globe-class athleticism Using the down-to-earth spirit that defines the Seashore volleyball Group. Held September 4–seven near the Hermosa Seaside Pier, this 12 months’s Event wasn’t simply a halt over the aggressive circuit—it absolutely was a celebration from the sport’s origins, that includes Olympians competing shoulder to shoulder with soaring stars and native heroes inside a admirer-helpful, no-frills environment.
The occasion had no stadium seating or flashy admirer zones. In its place, spectators collected around the courts, standing within 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 Variation of the sport, where by Group, Competitors, and connection were being the main target.
Over the Women of all ages’s facet, Olympians Kelly Cheng and Sara Hughes reminded All people why they’re thought of Among the many ideal on the earth. In the remarkable all-USC last, Cheng and Hughes dropped the initial set to Terese Cannon and Megan Kraft ahead of roaring back again to acquire the subsequent two. The determining set arrived right down to the wire, with Cheng and Hughes edging out a 20–18 gain inside of a thrilling end. The victory marked a triumphant moment in their article-Olympic campaign and underscored their dominance heading into the next AVP and Global gatherings.
The men’s final showcased another 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 too highly effective, profitable in straight sets, 21–14 and 21–seventeen. Budinger’s physicality at the net and Evans’ sharp instincts manufactured them the unstoppable duo in the weekend.
Throughout four times of play, one hundred thirty groups competed within a double-elimination structure that stored lovers on their toes and athletes grinding by way of long, Sunlight-soaked times. The Event also incorporated a juniors division, which introduced in a Sodo66 huge selection of younger gamers desperate to discover, compete, and share the sand with the pros. It had been a exceptional option for youth athletes for being Element of a major volleyball occasion plus a important recruiting moment for college plans in attendance.
A complete Photograph gallery captured the essence with the Event—from superior-traveling spikes and gritty digs to silent times of focus and laughter among teammates. These photos, extensively shared on the web, assisted showcase the splendor and intimacy with the Activity in its most genuine environment.
With its accomplishment, the Hermosa Seaside Open up has sparked conversation about its upcoming. Town leaders are Discovering a model similar to Manhattan Beach, where by the municipality could choose a bigger position in internet hosting the tournament annually. There’s also An even bigger target in sight: Hermosa is actively positioning by itself to become a selected teaching internet site to the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics.
The 2024 Hermosa Beach front Open was much 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.