The 2024 Hermosa Seashore Open shipped a Specific kind of magic, blending earth-class athleticism with the down-to-earth spirit that defines the Seaside volleyball Local community. Held September four–7 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 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 during the sand and sitting down on Beach front towels since they cheered on elite athletes from just toes absent. Structured with grassroots aid and backed by sponsors like Wedbush Securities, the Event returned to the purer Variation of the sport, wherever Local community, competition, and relationship were being the main target.
To the Gals’s aspect, Olympians Kelly Cheng and Sara Hughes reminded Absolutely everyone why they’re regarded Among the many greatest on earth. Within a dramatic all-USC remaining, Cheng and Hughes dropped the main established to Terese Cannon and Megan Kraft just before roaring back to gain the subsequent two. The choosing established arrived down to the wire, with Cheng and Hughes edging out a twenty–18 gain in a very thrilling end. The victory marked a triumphant moment inside their submit-Olympic marketing campaign and underscored their dominance heading into the subsequent AVP and international situations.
The Gentlemen’s last showcased One more Olympic-caliber clash. Previous NBA forward turned Beach front 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 online and Evans’ sharp instincts created them the unstoppable duo of your Sodo66 weekend.
Across 4 times of Engage in, a hundred thirty teams competed in the double-elimination structure that stored lovers on their toes and athletes grinding by way of extensive, Sunlight-soaked times. The Event also integrated a juniors division, which brought in many hundreds of young players desirous to master, contend, and share the sand With all the professionals. It absolutely was a rare chance for youth athletes being part of a major volleyball function and also a valuable recruiting moment for college plans in attendance.
A complete Picture gallery captured the essence with the Event—from superior-traveling spikes and gritty digs to silent times of aim and laughter among teammates. These pictures, extensively shared on the internet, assisted showcase the splendor and intimacy on the sport in its most authentic setting.
With its achievement, the Hermosa Beach Open up has sparked dialogue about its long run. Town leaders are Discovering a model similar to Manhattan Beach front, where by the municipality could choose a bigger part in hosting the Event on a yearly basis. There’s also A much bigger aim in sight: Hermosa is actively positioning itself to be a specified instruction website for the 2028 L. a. Olympics.
The 2024 Hermosa Seaside Open was extra than just a tournament. It had been a statement—evidence that even in an period of huge contracts and international broadcasts, Beach front volleyball’s heart still beats strongest during the sand, surrounded by Local community.