The 2024 Hermosa Beach Open up sent a Unique style of magic, blending entire world-course athleticism Along with the down-to-earth spirit that defines the beach volleyball Local community. Held September four–seven near the Hermosa Seaside Pier, this 12 months’s Event wasn’t just a cease to the aggressive circuit—it was a celebration in the sport’s origins, that includes Olympians competing shoulder to shoulder with soaring stars and local heroes within 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 version of the sport, where by Group, Competitors, and connection were the focus.
On the women’s facet, Olympians Kelly Cheng and Sara Hughes reminded Anyone why they’re viewed as Amongst the finest on the planet. Inside a dramatic all-USC remaining, Cheng and Hughes dropped the 1st set to Terese Cannon and Megan Kraft prior to roaring back to earn the subsequent two. The deciding established came all the way down to the wire, with Cheng and Hughes edging out a twenty–18 gain in a very thrilling end. The victory marked a triumphant instant inside their submit-Olympic marketing campaign and underscored their dominance heading into the subsequent AVP and international situations.
The Gentlemen’s last showcased Yet another Olympic-caliber clash. Previous NBA forward turned Seashore volleyball standout Chase Budinger teamed up with Olympic veteran Miles Evans to experience off against Miles Partain and Alex Ranghieri. Budinger and Evans proved far too effective, profitable in straight sets, 21–14 and 21–17. Budinger’s physicality at The web and Evans’ sharp instincts made them the unstoppable duo of your weekend.
Across 4 times of Engage in, one hundred thirty groups competed inside of a double-elimination format that stored enthusiasts on their toes and athletes grinding by way of very long, Solar-soaked times. The Event also bundled a juniors division, which introduced in hundreds of younger gamers eager to find out, contend, and share the sand with the pros. It had been a exceptional option for youth athletes to become Section of An important volleyball event along with a worthwhile recruiting minute for faculty courses in attendance.
A full Picture gallery captured the essence from the Event—from substantial-flying spikes and gritty digs to tranquil moments of concentrate and laughter amongst teammates. These photographs, commonly shared on the internet, served showcase the splendor and intimacy from the Activity in its most genuine placing.
With its success, the Hermosa Seaside Open has sparked dialogue about its potential. Metropolis leaders are Discovering a Sodo66 design comparable to Manhattan Seaside, the place the municipality could choose a bigger purpose in web hosting the Event each year. There’s also An even bigger intention in sight: Hermosa is actively positioning alone to be a specified education internet site for that 2028 La Olympics.
The 2024 Hermosa Seaside Open was extra than simply a tournament. It was a statement—evidence that even in an period of huge contracts and world-wide broadcasts, Seaside volleyball’s heart continue to beats strongest in the sand, surrounded by Local community.