The 2024 Hermosa Beach front Open shipped a Specific type of magic, blending environment-class athleticism with the down-to-earth spirit that defines the Seaside volleyball Group. Held September 4–7 near the Hermosa Seashore Pier, this calendar year’s tournament wasn’t just a end on the competitive circuit—it was a celebration on the Activity’s origins, showcasing Olympians competing shoulder to shoulder with increasing stars and local heroes in the lover-welcoming, no-frills surroundings.
The celebration experienced no stadium seating or flashy supporter zones. Rather, spectators collected round the courts, standing in the sand and sitting down on Beach front towels since they cheered on elite athletes from just toes absent. Structured with grassroots aid and backed by sponsors like Wedbush Securities, the Event returned to the purer Variation of the sport, where by Group, Opposition, and connection had been the focus.
On the women’s facet, Olympians Kelly Cheng and Sara Hughes reminded everyone why they’re considered Amongst the most effective in the world. Inside of a spectacular all-USC ultimate, Cheng and Hughes dropped the initial set to Terese Cannon and Megan Kraft before roaring again to acquire the next two. The selecting established came all the way down to the wire, with Cheng and Hughes edging out a 20–eighteen earn within a thrilling finish. The victory marked a triumphant minute within their post-Olympic marketing campaign and underscored their dominance heading into the following AVP and Intercontinental gatherings.
The Guys’s final highlighted An additional Olympic-caliber clash. Previous NBA forward turned Seashore volleyball standout Chase Budinger teamed up with Olympic veteran Miles Evans to encounter off versus Miles Partain and Alex Ranghieri. Budinger and Evans proved way too potent, profitable in straight sets, 21–fourteen and 21–17. Budinger’s physicality at The online and Evans’ sharp instincts produced them the unstoppable duo of your weekend.
Across 4 times of Perform, a hundred thirty teams competed within a double-elimination structure that kept lovers 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 With all the professionals. It absolutely was a rare chance for youth athletes to get Element of a major volleyball occasion and also a important recruiting moment for college plans in attendance.
A complete Photograph gallery captured the essence on the Match—from significant-traveling spikes and gritty digs to silent times of aim and laughter among the teammates. These pictures, extensively shared on the internet, assisted showcase the attractiveness and intimacy on the sport in its most authentic setting.
With its achievement, the Hermosa Beach Open up has sparked dialogue about its upcoming. Town leaders are Discovering a design 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 education internet site for your 2028 Los Angeles Olympics.
The 2024 Hermosa Seashore Open was more than simply a tournament. It absolutely was an announcement—proof that even within an era of Sodo66 massive contracts and world wide broadcasts, Seaside volleyball’s coronary heart however beats strongest inside the sand, surrounded by community.