The 2024 Hermosa Seashore Open shipped a Exclusive sort of magic, Mixing globe-class athleticism With all the down-to-earth spirit that defines the Beach front volleyball community. Held September 4–seven close to the Hermosa Beach front Pier, this yr’s Match wasn’t merely a stop within the aggressive circuit—it absolutely was a celebration of the sport’s origins, that includes Olympians competing shoulder to shoulder with mounting stars and native heroes in a enthusiast-helpful, no-frills ecosystem.
The event had no stadium seating or flashy enthusiast zones. As a substitute, spectators collected within the courts, standing in the sand and sitting on beach towels as they cheered on elite athletes from just feet away. Structured with grassroots aid and backed by sponsors like Wedbush Securities, the Event returned to the purer Variation of the sport, where by Group, Competitors, and connection were the focus.
On the women’s facet, Olympians Kelly Cheng and Sara Hughes reminded everyone why they’re thought of Amongst the finest on the earth. In a very spectacular all-USC last, Cheng and Hughes dropped the very first set to Terese Cannon and Megan Kraft right before roaring back again to acquire the next two. The selecting set came right down to the wire, with Cheng and Hughes edging out a 20–eighteen acquire inside a thrilling complete. The victory marked a triumphant minute in their write-up-Olympic campaign and underscored their dominance heading into the next AVP and Global activities.
The men’s closing featured A further Olympic-caliber clash. Former NBA ahead turned Seaside volleyball standout Chase Budinger teamed up with Olympic veteran Miles Evans to face off in opposition to Miles Partain and Alex Ranghieri. Budinger and Evans proved as well impressive, successful in straight sets, 21–fourteen and 21–17. Budinger’s physicality at The web and Evans’ sharp instincts made them the unstoppable duo on the weekend.
Throughout four days of Participate in, one hundred thirty groups competed in a double-elimination format that saved supporters on their own toes and athletes grinding through prolonged, Solar-soaked days. The Match also involved a juniors division, which brought in numerous youthful gamers eager to find out, contend, and share the sand with the pros. It had been a exceptional opportunity for youth athletes for being Section of An important volleyball event as well as a worthwhile recruiting instant for faculty programs in attendance.
A full photo gallery captured the essence in the Match—from substantial-traveling spikes and gritty digs to tranquil moments of emphasis and laughter between teammates. These visuals, greatly shared online, helped showcase the elegance and intimacy from the sport in its most authentic setting.
With its success, the Hermosa Beach front Open up has sparked discussion about its foreseeable future. Metropolis leaders are Discovering a model comparable to Manhattan Beach front, wherever the municipality Sodo66 could acquire a bigger part in hosting the Event on a yearly basis. There’s also An even bigger purpose in sight: Hermosa is actively positioning itself to be a specified instruction web site for your 2028 L. a. Olympics.
The 2024 Hermosa Seashore Open was more than simply a tournament. It absolutely was an announcement—proof that even within an era of massive contracts and world-wide broadcasts, beach volleyball’s coronary heart nevertheless beats strongest within the sand, surrounded by Group.