The 2024 Hermosa Beach Open up delivered a Unique style of magic, blending entire world-course athleticism Together with the down-to-earth spirit that defines the Beach front volleyball Neighborhood. Held September 4–seven close to the Hermosa Seashore Pier, this calendar year’s tournament wasn’t only a end on the competitive circuit—it was a celebration on the Activity’s origins, showcasing Olympians competing shoulder to shoulder with increasing stars and local heroes in the lover-welcoming, no-frills surroundings.
The celebration experienced no stadium seating or flashy supporter 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 assist and backed by sponsors like Wedbush Securities, the Match returned into a purer Model of the game, in which Neighborhood, 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 viewed as Among the many very best 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 win another two. The determining set arrived right down to the wire, with Cheng and Hughes edging out a twenty–18 win inside of a thrilling complete. The victory marked a triumphant minute within their post-Olympic marketing campaign and underscored their dominance heading into the next AVP and Intercontinental functions.
The Males’s remaining highlighted An additional Olympic-caliber clash. Previous NBA forward turned Seashore volleyball standout Chase Budinger teamed up with Olympic veteran Miles Evans to encounter off versus Miles Partain and Alex Ranghieri. Budinger and Evans proved also powerful, successful in straight sets, 21–fourteen and 21–17. Budinger’s physicality at The web and Evans’ sharp instincts produced them the unstoppable duo with the weekend.
Across four times of play, one hundred thirty groups competed inside a double-elimination structure that kept enthusiasts on their own toes and athletes grinding via extended, Sunshine-soaked days. The Match also involved a juniors division, which brought in countless youthful gamers eager to find out, contend, and share the sand with the pros. It absolutely was a exceptional opportunity for youth athletes for being Section of An important volleyball event as well as a worthwhile recruiting instant for faculty programs in attendance.
A full photo gallery captured the essence in the Match—from substantial-traveling spikes and gritty digs to tranquil times of concentration and laughter among the teammates. These images, widely shared on-line, assisted showcase the attractiveness and intimacy in the sport in its most authentic setting.
With its achievement, the Hermosa Beach Open up has sparked dialogue about its long run. Town leaders are Discovering a model similar to Manhattan Beach front, where by the municipality could choose a bigger position in hosting the tournament on a yearly basis. There’s also An even bigger purpose in sight: Hermosa is actively positioning itself to be a selected education internet site for your 2028 Los Angeles Olympics.
The 2024 Hermosa Seashore Open was far more than just a Match. It was a press release—proof that even in an period of big contracts and world broadcasts, Seashore volleyball’s Sodo66 heart continue to beats strongest while in the sand, surrounded by community.