The 2024 Hermosa Beach front Open up delivered a Distinctive sort of magic, Mixing globe-class athleticism Along with the down-to-earth spirit that defines the Beach front volleyball Group. Held September 4–7 near the Hermosa Seashore Pier, this calendar year’s tournament wasn’t only a halt around the competitive circuit—it had been a celebration with the Activity’s origins, showcasing Olympians competing shoulder to shoulder with increasing stars and local heroes in the lover-friendly, no-frills surroundings.
The celebration experienced no stadium seating or flashy lover zones. Rather, spectators gathered across the courts, standing while in the sand and sitting down on Seashore towels because they cheered on elite athletes from just ft away. Arranged with grassroots help and backed by sponsors like Wedbush Securities, the Match returned into a purer Edition of the game, in which Neighborhood, Levels of competition, and link have been the main focus.
On the women’s facet, Olympians Kelly Cheng and Sara Hughes reminded Anyone why they’re thought of Amongst the finest on the globe. In a very spectacular all-USC ultimate, Cheng and Hughes dropped the initial set to Terese Cannon and Megan Kraft right before roaring back again to acquire the next two. The selecting set came right down to the wire, with Cheng and Hughes edging out a 20–eighteen acquire inside a thrilling complete. The victory marked a triumphant minute in their write-up-Olympic campaign and underscored their dominance heading into another AVP and Global activities.
The men’s closing featured A further Olympic-caliber clash. Former NBA ahead turned Seaside 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 as well highly effective, winning in straight sets, 21–fourteen and 21–seventeen. Budinger’s physicality at The web and Evans’ sharp instincts built them the unstoppable duo on the weekend.
Throughout four days of Participate in, a hundred thirty teams competed within a double-elimination structure that kept enthusiasts on their own toes and athletes grinding by means of extensive, sun-soaked days. The Event also included a juniors division, which brought in many young players desirous to master, compete, and share the sand With all the professionals. It absolutely was a rare chance for youth athletes being part of a major 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 focus and laughter among teammates. These pictures, extensively shared on the web, aided showcase the splendor and intimacy with the Activity in its most genuine environment.
With its good results, the Sodo66 Hermosa Seaside Open has sparked dialogue about its upcoming. Town leaders are Discovering a design much like Manhattan Beach, where the municipality could choose a bigger position in internet hosting the tournament annually. There’s also An even bigger objective in sight: Hermosa is actively positioning itself to become a selected teaching internet 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 massive contracts and world wide broadcasts, Seaside volleyball’s coronary heart even now beats strongest inside the sand, surrounded by community.