The 2024 Hermosa Seashore Open up delivered a Specific type of magic, blending world-class athleticism While using the down-to-earth spirit that defines the Seaside volleyball Local community. Held September four–seven close to the Hermosa Seashore Pier, this 12 months’s tournament wasn’t simply a halt about the competitive circuit—it had been a celebration in the Activity’s origins, that includes Olympians competing shoulder to shoulder with climbing stars and native heroes in the enthusiast-welcoming, no-frills ecosystem.
The function had no stadium seating or flashy fan zones. As an alternative, spectators collected across the courts, standing in the sand and sitting on Seashore towels as they cheered on elite athletes from just ft absent. Organized with grassroots guidance and backed by sponsors like Wedbush Securities, the tournament returned to the purer Edition of the sport, exactly where Local community, Levels of competition, and connection have been the main target.
About the women’s aspect, Olympians Kelly Cheng and Sara Hughes reminded Everybody why they’re viewed as among the ideal in the world. Within a remarkable all-USC ultimate, Cheng and Hughes dropped the main established to Terese Cannon and Megan Kraft in advance of roaring back again to earn the subsequent two. The selecting established arrived right down to the wire, with Cheng and Hughes edging out a twenty–18 earn inside a thrilling finish. The victory marked a triumphant moment in their publish-Olympic campaign and underscored their dominance heading into the following AVP and Worldwide functions.
The Gentlemen’s closing showcased A further Olympic-caliber clash. Former NBA ahead turned Seashore volleyball standout Chase Budinger teamed up with Olympic veteran Miles Evans to experience off against Miles Partain and Alex Ranghieri. Budinger and Evans proved much too effective, successful in straight sets, 21–fourteen and Sodo66 21–seventeen. Budinger’s physicality at the net and Evans’ sharp instincts designed them the unstoppable duo from the weekend.
Across four times of play, one hundred thirty teams competed inside of a double-elimination format that held fans on their toes and athletes grinding by long, sun-soaked days. The Match also bundled a juniors division, which introduced in a huge selection of younger players desperate to master, contend, and share the sand While using the execs. It absolutely was a scarce opportunity for youth athletes to become Section of A significant volleyball event and a valuable recruiting minute for college programs in attendance.
An entire Picture gallery captured the essence on the tournament—from significant-flying spikes and gritty digs to tranquil moments of concentration and laughter amid teammates. These photos, widely shared on line, assisted showcase the natural beauty and intimacy on the Activity in its most authentic location.
With its good results, the Hermosa Beach front Open has sparked conversation about its long run. Town leaders are exploring a model similar to Manhattan Beach, the place the municipality could acquire a bigger role in hosting the tournament each year. There’s also A much bigger purpose in sight: Hermosa is actively positioning by itself to become a designated coaching web site to the 2028 La Olympics.
The 2024 Hermosa Seaside Open was much more than just a Event. It absolutely was a press release—proof that even in an period of huge contracts and world-wide broadcasts, Seaside volleyball’s heart continue to beats strongest during the sand, surrounded by Local community.