The 2024 Hermosa Seaside Open sent a Unique style of magic, blending environment-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 end over the competitive circuit—it was a celebration on the Activity’s origins, showcasing Olympians competing shoulder to shoulder with rising stars and local heroes within a supporter-welcoming, no-frills environment.
The occasion had no stadium seating or flashy admirer zones. As a substitute, spectators collected within the courts, standing in the sand and sitting on beach towels as 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 Group, 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 One of the greatest on earth. Inside a dramatic all-USC remaining, Cheng and Hughes dropped the 1st set to Terese Cannon and Megan Kraft prior to roaring again to earn the following two. The deciding established came all the way down to the wire, with Cheng and Hughes edging out a 20–eighteen earn within a thrilling complete. The victory marked a triumphant minute within their write-up-Olympic campaign Sodo66 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 beach 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 too highly effective, winning in straight sets, 21–fourteen and 21–seventeen. Budinger’s physicality at the net and Evans’ sharp instincts designed them the unstoppable duo from the weekend.
Throughout 4 days of Engage in, 130 teams competed in a very double-elimination format that held admirers on their toes and athletes grinding by way of extensive, Sunlight-soaked times. The Event also included a juniors division, which brought in many youthful players desirous to study, contend, and share the sand Using the professionals. It had been a scarce opportunity for youth athletes for being Component of An important volleyball event as well as a worthwhile recruiting instant for faculty courses in attendance.
A full photo gallery captured the essence from the tournament—from large-flying spikes and gritty digs to peaceful moments of target and laughter amid teammates. These photographs, commonly shared on the net, aided showcase the natural beauty and intimacy of the Activity in its most reliable placing.
With its results, the Hermosa Seashore Open has sparked conversation about its long term. City leaders are Checking out a design much like Manhattan Beach, where the municipality could take a bigger purpose in internet hosting the tournament annually. There’s also An even bigger purpose in sight: Hermosa is actively positioning itself to be a specified instruction web site for the 2028 L. a. Olympics.
The 2024 Hermosa Seashore Open was extra than just a tournament. It had been a statement—evidence that even in an period of huge contracts and global broadcasts, Seashore volleyball’s heart continue to beats strongest from the sand, surrounded by Neighborhood.