The 2024 Hermosa Seashore Open shipped a Particular form of magic, Mixing world-course athleticism Along with the down-to-earth spirit that defines the beach volleyball Neighborhood. Held September 4–7 near the Hermosa Beach Pier, this yr’s Match wasn’t only a end over the aggressive circuit—it had been a celebration on the sport’s origins, featuring Olympians competing shoulder to shoulder with increasing stars and native heroes inside of a fan-friendly, no-frills environment.
The party experienced no stadium seating or flashy enthusiast zones. Alternatively, spectators gathered within the courts, standing from the sand and sitting on Beach front towels as they cheered on elite athletes from just toes away. Arranged with grassroots assistance and backed by sponsors like Wedbush Securities, the Event returned to some purer Model of the sport, in which Local community, Competitors, and connection had been the main focus.
About the Women of all ages’s facet, Olympians Kelly Cheng and Sara Hughes reminded everyone why they’re regarded as One of the very best on earth. Within a remarkable all-USC last, Cheng and Hughes dropped the very first set to Terese Cannon and Megan Kraft before roaring again to gain the subsequent two. The choosing established came down to the wire, with Cheng and Hughes edging out a twenty–18 gain in a very thrilling finish. The victory marked a triumphant instant inside their publish-Olympic marketing campaign and underscored their Sodo66 dominance heading into the following AVP and Intercontinental gatherings.
The Guys’s last showcased A different Olympic-caliber clash. Former NBA forward turned Seashore volleyball standout Chase Budinger teamed up with Olympic veteran Miles Evans to encounter off from Miles Partain and Alex Ranghieri. Budinger and Evans proved as well highly effective, winning in straight sets, 21–14 and 21–seventeen. Budinger’s physicality at The online 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 format that retained followers on their own toes and athletes grinding via prolonged, Solar-soaked days. The Match also bundled a juniors division, which introduced in hundreds of younger gamers desperate to find out, compete, and share the sand with the pros. It was a uncommon chance for youth athletes for being Section of A serious volleyball function plus a worthwhile recruiting second for college applications in attendance.
An entire Picture gallery captured the essence on the tournament—from superior-flying spikes and gritty digs to silent moments of aim and laughter between teammates. These photographs, extensively shared on-line, served showcase the splendor and intimacy in the Activity in its most authentic location.
With its good results, the Hermosa Beach front Open has sparked discussion about its future. City leaders are Discovering a design comparable to Manhattan Beach front, in which the municipality could acquire a bigger role in hosting the tournament each year. There’s also A much bigger intention in sight: Hermosa is actively positioning alone to be a specified teaching site with the 2028 L. a. Olympics.
The 2024 Hermosa Seashore Open was a lot more than just a tournament. It absolutely was a press release—proof that even in an period of huge contracts and world wide broadcasts, Seaside volleyball’s heart nonetheless beats strongest in the sand, surrounded by Group.