The 2024 Hermosa Beach Open delivered a Exclusive kind of magic, Mixing world-course athleticism Together with the down-to-earth spirit that defines the Seaside volleyball Local community. Held September 4–seven near the Hermosa Beach front Pier, this calendar year’s Match wasn’t only a halt about the competitive circuit—it absolutely was a celebration with the sport’s origins, showcasing Olympians competing shoulder to shoulder with mounting stars and local heroes in a supporter-helpful, no-frills environment.
The occasion had no stadium seating or flashy lover zones. As a substitute, spectators gathered round the courts, standing inside the sand and sitting down on Beach front towels as they cheered on elite athletes from just ft absent. Organized with grassroots help and backed by sponsors like Wedbush Securities, the Event returned to a purer Edition of the game, wherever Group, Level of competition, and connection had been the main focus.
About the Women of all ages’s side, Olympians Kelly Cheng and Sara Hughes reminded Every person why they’re viewed as Amongst the most effective on the planet. Within a spectacular all-USC ultimate, Cheng and Hughes dropped the primary set to Terese Cannon and Megan Kraft prior to roaring again to gain another two. The selecting set arrived right down to the wire, with Cheng and Hughes edging out a 20–eighteen get inside a thrilling complete. The victory marked a triumphant minute within their publish-Olympic marketing campaign and underscored their dominance heading into the subsequent AVP and international events.
The Adult males’s ultimate featured A different Olympic-caliber clash. Former NBA forward turned Seashore volleyball standout Chase Budinger teamed up with Olympic veteran Miles Evans to confront off against Miles Partain and Alex Ranghieri. Budinger and Evans proved far too strong, profitable in straight sets, 21–14 and 21–17. Budinger’s physicality at The web and Evans’ sharp instincts made them the unstoppable duo in the weekend.
Throughout 4 times of play, 130 teams competed inside of a double-elimination structure that kept enthusiasts on their own toes and athletes grinding as a result of lengthy, Sunlight-soaked days. The tournament also incorporated a juniors division, which brought in many youthful gamers wanting to study, contend, and share the sand Along with the execs. It absolutely was a exceptional option for youth athletes to be part of An important volleyball party in addition to a valuable recruiting minute for college programs in attendance.
An entire Picture gallery captured the essence from the Event—from significant-flying spikes and gritty digs to silent moments of aim and laughter amid teammates. These Sodo66 pictures, greatly shared on the web, helped showcase the natural beauty and intimacy in the Activity in its most reliable environment.
With its achievements, the Hermosa Seaside Open has sparked dialogue about its long term. Metropolis leaders are Checking out a product comparable to Manhattan Beach, in which the municipality could choose a bigger role in hosting the tournament yearly. There’s also A much bigger aim in sight: Hermosa is actively positioning by itself to become a designated education web-site with the 2028 L. a. Olympics.
The 2024 Hermosa Seashore Open was a lot more than just a tournament. It was a press release—evidence that even in an period of massive contracts and world wide broadcasts, Seashore volleyball’s heart nonetheless beats strongest within the sand, surrounded by Group.