The 2024 Hermosa Seashore Open up sent a Particular kind of magic, Mixing globe-class athleticism With all the down-to-earth spirit that defines the Beach front volleyball Neighborhood. Held September 4–seven close to the Hermosa Seashore Pier, this yr’s tournament wasn’t simply a prevent on the aggressive circuit—it absolutely was a celebration with the Activity’s origins, that includes Olympians competing shoulder to shoulder with increasing stars and native heroes inside of a supporter-pleasant, no-frills natural environment.
The celebration had no stadium seating or flashy fan zones. As an alternative, spectators collected round the courts, standing while in the sand and sitting on Beach front towels because they cheered on elite athletes from just toes away. Arranged with grassroots assistance and backed by sponsors like Wedbush Securities, the Match returned to some purer Variation of the game, exactly where Group, competition, and link were being the focus.
To the women’s aspect, Olympians Kelly Cheng and Sara Hughes reminded Anyone why they’re deemed Amongst the very best on the earth. Inside of a dramatic all-USC last, Cheng and Hughes dropped the primary established to Terese Cannon and Megan Kraft right before roaring again to win the next two. The deciding established arrived all the way down to the wire, with Cheng and Hughes edging out a twenty–18 acquire in a very thrilling end. The victory marked a triumphant minute within their put up-Olympic campaign and underscored their dominance heading into another AVP and Intercontinental situations.
The Adult males’s remaining highlighted One more Olympic-caliber clash. Former NBA ahead turned Seaside volleyball standout Chase Budinger teamed up with Olympic veteran Miles Evans to encounter off against Miles Partain and Alex Ranghieri. Budinger and Evans proved too impressive, successful in straight sets, 21–fourteen and 21–17. Budinger’s physicality at The web and Evans’ sharp instincts created them the unstoppable duo of the weekend.
Throughout 4 days of Participate in, 130 groups competed inside a double-elimination structure that kept lovers on their own toes and athletes grinding by way of long, Sunshine-soaked times. The Event also provided a juniors division, which introduced in a huge selection of younger players wanting to master, contend, and share the sand Using the pros. It was a rare chance for youth athletes being Element of a major volleyball party and a beneficial recruiting second for college applications in attendance.
A full Image gallery captured the essence of your Event—from significant-flying spikes and gritty digs to quiet times of emphasis and laughter amid teammates. These photos, extensively shared online, aided showcase the splendor and intimacy in the Activity in its most authentic location.
With its good results, the Hermosa Beach front Open has sparked dialogue about its potential. Town leaders are exploring a design comparable to Manhattan Beach, wherever the municipality could consider a bigger role in hosting the Match on a yearly basis. There’s also a bigger aim in sight: Hermosa is actively positioning by itself to be a selected training internet site with the 2028 L. a. Olympics.
The 2024 Hermosa Beach front Open up was more than just a tournament. It absolutely was Sodo66 a press release—evidence that even within an era of big contracts and world-wide broadcasts, Seashore volleyball’s heart nevertheless beats strongest while in the sand, surrounded by Neighborhood.