The 2024 Hermosa Beach Open up delivered a special sort of magic, blending earth-course athleticism Together with the down-to-earth spirit that defines the Seashore volleyball Group. Held September four–7 near the Hermosa Seaside Pier, this yr’s tournament wasn’t just a quit within the competitive circuit—it absolutely was a celebration of your Activity’s origins, that includes Olympians competing shoulder to shoulder with rising stars and native heroes within a enthusiast-helpful, no-frills atmosphere.
The celebration experienced no stadium seating or flashy fan zones. Alternatively, spectators collected around the courts, standing while in the sand and sitting down on Seashore towels since they cheered on elite athletes from just ft absent. Arranged with grassroots help and backed by sponsors like Wedbush Securities, the Event returned to a purer Model of the sport, in which Local community, Competitiveness, and relationship were the main focus.
About the Girls’s aspect, Olympians Kelly Cheng and Sara Hughes reminded All people why they’re thought of Among the many finest on the globe. In a very spectacular all-USC remaining, Cheng and Hughes dropped the main set to Terese Cannon and Megan Kraft before roaring again to acquire another two. The determining established came down to the wire, with Cheng and Hughes edging out a twenty–18 gain in a very thrilling end. The victory marked a triumphant moment inside their publish-Olympic marketing campaign and underscored their dominance heading into the following AVP and Intercontinental gatherings.
The Males’s remaining featured A further Olympic-caliber clash. Former NBA ahead turned Seaside volleyball standout Chase Budinger teamed up with Olympic veteran Miles Evans to face off versus Miles Partain and Alex Ranghieri. Budinger and Evans proved way too Sodo66 potent, successful in straight sets, 21–fourteen and 21–seventeen. Budinger’s physicality at The web and Evans’ sharp instincts produced them the unstoppable duo on the weekend.
Throughout 4 times of Engage in, a hundred thirty teams competed in a double-elimination format that retained supporters on their toes and athletes grinding by long, sun-soaked times. The Event also included a juniors division, which introduced in hundreds of youthful gamers desperate to master, contend, and share the sand While using the execs. It was a uncommon chance for youth athletes for being Portion of An important volleyball event in addition to a important recruiting second for college programs in attendance.
A complete Image gallery captured the essence in the Event—from high-traveling spikes and gritty digs to quiet times of target and laughter among the teammates. These photographs, widely shared on line, helped showcase the beauty and intimacy in the sport in its most authentic setting.
With its success, the Hermosa Beach front Open has sparked conversation about its long run. City leaders are exploring a design just like Manhattan Seaside, in which the municipality could acquire a bigger purpose in hosting the tournament on a yearly basis. There’s also An even bigger intention in sight: Hermosa is actively positioning alone to be a selected coaching web site to the 2028 L. a. Olympics.
The 2024 Hermosa Seashore Open was much more than simply a Match. It was a press release—proof that even in an period of huge contracts and international broadcasts, Beach front volleyball’s heart still beats strongest during the sand, surrounded by Neighborhood.