The 2024 Hermosa Seashore Open up delivered a Particular kind of magic, blending earth-course athleticism While using the down-to-earth spirit that defines the Seaside volleyball Local community. Held September four–seven close to the Hermosa Beach Pier, this yr’s Match wasn’t merely a stop within the competitive circuit—it was a celebration from the Activity’s origins, that includes Olympians competing shoulder to shoulder with climbing stars and local heroes within a enthusiast-friendly, no-frills surroundings.
The event experienced no stadium seating or flashy admirer zones. As an alternative, spectators gathered round the courts, standing while in the sand and sitting on Beach front towels as they cheered on elite athletes from just ft absent. Organized with grassroots assist and backed by sponsors like Wedbush Securities, the Event returned into a purer version of the game, exactly where Local community, Levels of competition, and relationship were the focus.
About the women’s side, Olympians Kelly Cheng and Sara Hughes reminded All people why they’re regarded as Among the many very best on the globe. Inside a remarkable all-USC ultimate, Cheng and Hughes dropped the 1st established to Terese Cannon and Megan Kraft before roaring back to get the following two. The determining set came down to the wire, with Cheng and Hughes edging out a twenty–eighteen gain inside of a thrilling complete. The victory marked a triumphant instant of their post-Olympic marketing campaign and underscored their dominance heading into the following AVP and international situations.
The Gentlemen’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 confront off against Miles Partain and Alex Ranghieri. Budinger and Evans proved way too potent, successful in straight sets, 21–fourteen and 21–seventeen. Budinger’s physicality at the net and Evans’ sharp instincts designed them the unstoppable duo from the weekend.
Throughout 4 days of Engage in, 130 teams competed in the double-elimination structure that kept lovers on their toes and athletes grinding by way of lengthy, Sunshine-soaked times. The tournament also involved a juniors division, which introduced in numerous younger gamers desperate to learn, compete, and share the sand Along with the execs. It absolutely was a uncommon possibility for youth athletes being A part of A significant volleyball function plus a precious recruiting minute for school packages in attendance.
A full Image gallery captured the essence with the Match—from substantial-flying spikes and gritty digs to quiet times of emphasis and laughter between teammates. These illustrations or photos, commonly shared on the Sodo66 net, assisted showcase the elegance and intimacy of the Activity in its most authentic placing.
With its good results, the Hermosa Beach front Open has sparked discussion about its future. Metropolis leaders are Checking out a model just like Manhattan Beach, wherever the municipality could consider a bigger role in internet hosting the Match annually. There’s also a bigger aim in sight: Hermosa is actively positioning by itself to be a selected training web site for that 2028 L. a. Olympics.
The 2024 Hermosa Beach front Open up was much more than just a tournament. It was a statement—proof that even in an period of massive contracts and world broadcasts, Beach front volleyball’s coronary heart continue to beats strongest within the sand, surrounded by community.