The 2024 Hermosa Beach Open up sent a Specific type of magic, blending environment-class athleticism While using the down-to-earth spirit that defines the Seaside volleyball Local community. Held September four–7 near the Hermosa Seashore Pier, this 12 months’s Event wasn’t merely a prevent around the competitive circuit—it was a celebration from the sport’s origins, featuring Olympians competing shoulder to shoulder with growing stars and local heroes inside a enthusiast-pleasant, no-frills setting.
The function had no stadium seating or flashy enthusiast zones. As a substitute, spectators gathered across the courts, standing inside the sand and sitting on Beach front towels because they cheered on elite athletes from just feet absent. Organized with grassroots assistance and backed by sponsors like Wedbush Securities, the Event returned to your purer Edition of the game, exactly where community, Competitors, and relationship had been the main target.
Within the women’s aspect, Olympians Kelly Cheng and Sara Hughes reminded Every person why they’re considered Among the many best on this planet. In a remarkable all-USC closing, Cheng and Hughes dropped the main established to Terese Cannon and Megan Kraft prior to roaring back again to acquire the subsequent two. The selecting established arrived right down to the wire, with Cheng and Hughes edging out a 20–eighteen win inside a thrilling finish. The victory marked a triumphant moment in their publish-Olympic marketing campaign and underscored their dominance heading into the subsequent AVP and Worldwide functions.
The Gentlemen’s last showcased A different Olympic-caliber clash. Former NBA ahead turned Seaside volleyball standout Chase Budinger teamed up with Olympic veteran Miles Evans to confront off towards Miles Partain and Alex Ranghieri. Budinger and Evans proved too powerful, profitable in straight sets, 21–14 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 play, one hundred thirty teams competed in a double-elimination format that held followers on their own toes and athletes grinding through very long, sun-soaked days. The Match also included a juniors division, which brought in hundreds of young players wanting to learn, compete, and share the sand Along with the execs. It absolutely was a rare chance for youth athletes to get Element of An important volleyball event as well Sodo66 as a worthwhile recruiting minute for school plans in attendance.
A full Image gallery captured the essence in the Event—from substantial-traveling spikes and gritty digs to peaceful times of target and laughter among teammates. These illustrations or photos, extensively shared on line, assisted showcase the natural beauty and intimacy on the Activity in its most authentic environment.
With its achievements, the Hermosa Beach Open has sparked discussion about its upcoming. City leaders are Discovering a design comparable to Manhattan Seaside, where by the municipality could get a bigger purpose in hosting the tournament every year. There’s also An even bigger goal in sight: Hermosa is actively positioning itself to become a designated education site for your 2028 La Olympics.
The 2024 Hermosa Seashore Open was additional than simply a Match. It had been an announcement—proof that even in an era of massive contracts and international broadcasts, beach volleyball’s heart nonetheless beats strongest inside the sand, surrounded by Neighborhood.