The 2024 Hermosa Seaside Open up sent a Particular style of magic, blending environment-course athleticism With all the down-to-earth spirit that defines the beach volleyball Neighborhood. Held September four–seven close to the Hermosa Beach Pier, this yr’s Event 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 ecosystem.

The occasion had no stadium seating or flashy enthusiast zones. As a substitute, spectators collected within the courts, standing within the sand and sitting on beach towels as they cheered on elite athletes from just feet away. Organized with grassroots support and backed by sponsors like Wedbush Securities, the tournament returned to a purer version of the sport, where Group, Competitors, and connection have been the main focus.

About the Girls’s aspect, Olympians Kelly Cheng and Sara Hughes reminded Every person why they’re deemed One of the greatest on earth. Inside a dramatic all-USC remaining, Cheng and Hughes dropped the main set to Terese Cannon and Megan Kraft just before roaring back to gain the subsequent two. The choosing established arrived down to the wire, with Cheng and Hughes edging out a twenty–18 win in a very thrilling end. The victory marked a triumphant moment inside their submit-Olympic campaign and underscored their dominance heading into the subsequent AVP and Worldwide situations.

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 towards Miles Partain and Alex Ranghieri. Budinger and Evans proved far too strong, 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 Participate in, 130 teams competed inside of a double-elimination format that retained followers on their toes and athletes grinding as a result of extended, Solar-soaked times. The tournament also provided a juniors division, which introduced in a huge selection of 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 Sodo66 party 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 to peaceful moments of target and laughter amid teammates. These illustrations or photos, greatly shared on line, served showcase the beauty and intimacy of the Activity in its most reliable location.

With its achievements, the Hermosa Beach front Open up has sparked discussion about its potential. City leaders are exploring a product comparable to Manhattan Seashore, the place the municipality could just take a larger role in internet hosting the Match on a yearly basis. There’s also a bigger target in sight: Hermosa is actively positioning by itself to become a selected teaching web-site to the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics.

The 2024 Hermosa Beach front Open was much more than simply a Match. It was a press release—proof that even within an era of big contracts and world wide broadcasts, Seaside volleyball’s coronary heart however beats strongest inside the sand, surrounded by community.