The 2024 Hermosa Beach front Open up delivered a Distinctive sort of magic, Mixing environment-course athleticism Together with the down-to-earth spirit that defines the Beach front volleyball Neighborhood. Held September 4–seven close to the Hermosa Beach Pier, this yr’s Match wasn’t simply a quit about the aggressive circuit—it absolutely was a celebration from the sport’s origins, that includes Olympians competing shoulder to shoulder with soaring stars and native heroes inside 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 Seaside towels as they cheered on elite athletes from just feet away. Organized with grassroots assistance and backed by sponsors like Wedbush Securities, the tournament returned to a purer version of the game, where community, Competitors, and connection had been the focus.
On the women’s facet, Olympians Kelly Cheng and Sara Hughes reminded everyone why they’re considered Amongst the most effective on the globe. In a very spectacular all-USC ultimate, Cheng and Hughes dropped the initial set to Terese Cannon and Megan Kraft right before roaring back again to get the next two. The selecting set arrived 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 facial area off in opposition to Miles Partain and Alex Ranghieri. Budinger and Evans proved as well highly effective, winning in straight sets, 21–fourteen and 21–seventeen. Budinger’s physicality at the net and Evans’ sharp instincts built them the unstoppable duo in the weekend.
Throughout four days of Participate in, 130 groups competed in a double-elimination format that retained followers on their own toes and athletes grinding through extended, Solar-soaked days. The tournament also involved a juniors division, which introduced in numerous younger gamers eager to find out, contend, and share the sand While using 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 photo gallery captured the essence from the tournament—from large-flying spikes and gritty digs Sodo66 to peaceful moments of emphasis and laughter between teammates. These illustrations or photos, greatly shared online, helped showcase the beauty and intimacy from the sport in its most reliable location.
With its achievements, the Hermosa Beach front Open up has sparked discussion about its foreseeable future. Metropolis leaders are exploring a model comparable to Manhattan Seashore, wherever the municipality could just take a larger function in hosting the Event per year. There’s also A much bigger aim in sight: Hermosa is actively positioning itself to be a specified coaching website for the 2028 L. a. Olympics.
The 2024 Hermosa Seaside Open up was additional than just a tournament. It had been a statement—evidence that even in an period of huge contracts and worldwide broadcasts, Beach front volleyball’s coronary heart nonetheless beats strongest in the sand, surrounded by Local community.