The 2024 Hermosa Seaside Open up delivered a Distinctive sort of magic, Mixing globe-class athleticism Using the down-to-earth spirit that defines the Seaside volleyball Group. Held September four–seven close to the Hermosa Beach front Pier, this yr’s Match wasn’t merely a stop within the aggressive circuit—it had been a celebration of your sport’s origins, featuring Olympians competing shoulder to shoulder with climbing stars and native heroes inside of a fan-pleasant, no-frills natural environment.
The party experienced no stadium seating or flashy fan zones. As an alternative, spectators gathered round 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 guidance and backed by sponsors like Wedbush Securities, the Event returned to the purer Variation of the sport, wherever Group, Level of competition, and relationship were being the main target.
To the Gals’s aspect, Olympians Kelly Cheng and Sara Hughes reminded All people why they’re regarded Among the many greatest on earth. Within a dramatic all-USC final, Cheng and Hughes dropped the main established to Terese Cannon and Megan Kraft ahead of roaring back to gain another two. The choosing set arrived down to the wire, with Cheng and Hughes edging out a twenty–18 win inside of a thrilling end. The victory marked a triumphant moment of their submit-Olympic campaign and underscored their dominance heading into the subsequent AVP and Worldwide events.
The Adult men’s last showcased One more Olympic-caliber clash. Former 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–seventeen. Budinger’s physicality at The online and Evans’ sharp instincts manufactured them the unstoppable duo of the weekend.
Across 4 days of Engage in, a hundred thirty teams competed in the double-elimination structure that stored admirers on their toes and athletes grinding by way of long, Sunlight-soaked times. The Event also integrated a juniors division, which brought in many hundreds of young players wanting to master, compete, and share the sand Together with the execs. It absolutely was a rare possibility for youth athletes being part of A significant 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 Sodo66 laughter among teammates. These pictures, extensively shared on the internet, assisted showcase the splendor and intimacy on the sport in its most genuine environment.
With its achievement, the Hermosa Beach Open has sparked dialogue about its upcoming. Town leaders are Discovering a model similar to Manhattan Beach front, where by the municipality could acquire a bigger part 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 site with the 2028 L. a. Olympics.
The 2024 Hermosa Seaside Open up was additional than just a Event. It had been a statement—evidence that even in an period of big contracts and global broadcasts, Seashore volleyball’s heart continue to beats strongest from the sand, surrounded by Neighborhood.