The 2024 Hermosa Beach Open up sent a Unique style of magic, blending entire world-course athleticism Along with the down-to-earth spirit that defines the beach volleyball Neighborhood. Held September four–seven close to the Hermosa Beach Pier, this yr’s Match wasn’t simply a stop about the aggressive circuit—it absolutely was a celebration of the sport’s origins, that includes Olympians competing shoulder to shoulder with mounting stars and native heroes in a enthusiast-pleasant, no-frills natural environment.
The party had no stadium seating or flashy fan zones. As an alternative, spectators gathered around the courts, standing in the sand and sitting on Seaside towels as they cheered on elite athletes from just feet away. Organized with grassroots assistance and backed by sponsors like Wedbush Securities, the tournament returned to a purer version of the sport, where Group, Opposition, and connection were the focus.
On the women’s facet, Olympians Kelly Cheng and Sara Hughes reminded Anyone why they’re thought of Amongst the finest on the earth. In the remarkable all-USC last, Cheng and Hughes dropped the first established to Terese Cannon and Megan Kraft ahead of roaring back to gain the subsequent two. The choosing established came down to the wire, with Cheng and Hughes edging out a twenty–18 gain in a very thrilling finish. The victory marked a triumphant instant inside their publish-Olympic marketing campaign and underscored their dominance heading into the following AVP and Intercontinental occasions.
The men’s remaining showcased Yet another Olympic-caliber clash. Previous NBA forward turned Beach front volleyball standout Chase Budinger teamed up with Olympic veteran Miles Evans to confront off against Miles Partain and Alex Ranghieri. Budinger and Evans proved way too potent, profitable in straight sets, 21–14 and 21–17. Budinger’s physicality at The online and Evans’ sharp instincts produced them the unstoppable duo of your weekend.
Across 4 times of Perform, one hundred thirty groups competed within a double-elimination structure that kept enthusiasts on their own toes and athletes grinding via very long, sun-soaked days. The Match also bundled a juniors division, which brought in countless youthful gamers eager to understand, contend, and share the Sodo66 sand with the pros. It had been a exceptional option for youth athletes to become Section of An important volleyball party along with a worthwhile recruiting minute for faculty courses in attendance.
An entire Image gallery captured the essence of the tournament—from higher-flying spikes and gritty digs to peaceful moments of concentrate and laughter among the teammates. These illustrations or photos, extensively shared on-line, helped showcase the elegance and intimacy in the sport in its most authentic location.
With its success, the Hermosa Beach front Open up has sparked discussion about its foreseeable future. Metropolis leaders are exploring a model comparable to Manhattan Seashore, wherever the municipality could just take a larger function in hosting the Event every year. There’s also A much bigger objective in sight: Hermosa is actively positioning alone to be a designated coaching site with the 2028 La Olympics.
The 2024 Hermosa Beach Open up was far more than just a Event. It had been a statement—evidence that even in an period of big contracts and global broadcasts, Seashore volleyball’s heart continue to beats strongest from the sand, surrounded by Neighborhood.