The 2024 Hermosa Seaside Open up delivered a special sort of magic, Mixing globe-course athleticism With all the down-to-earth spirit that defines the Seashore volleyball community. Held September 4–7 close to the Hermosa Seashore Pier, this year’s tournament wasn’t only a halt on 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-welcoming, no-frills surroundings.

The function experienced no stadium seating or flashy supporter zones. Instead, spectators gathered across the courts, standing inside the sand and sitting on Seaside towels because 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 game, where community, Competitors, and connection were the main target.

On the women’s facet, Olympians Kelly Cheng and Sara Hughes reminded Anyone why they’re viewed as Among the many finest on the earth. In a very remarkable all-USC last, Cheng and Hughes dropped the very first established to Terese Cannon and Megan Kraft in advance of roaring back again to get the next two. The determining set arrived right down to the wire, with Cheng and Hughes edging out a 20–eighteen get in a thrilling complete. The victory marked a triumphant second in their article-Olympic campaign and underscored their dominance heading into another AVP and Global occasions.

The Adult males’s closing featured A different Olympic-caliber clash. Former NBA ahead turned beach 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 too highly effective, winning in straight sets, 21–14 and 21–seventeen. Budinger’s physicality at the net and Evans’ sharp instincts designed them the unstoppable duo from the weekend.

Throughout 4 days of Enjoy, 130 Sodo66 teams competed inside of a double-elimination format that held fans on their toes and athletes grinding by lengthy, Sunshine-soaked times. The Event also incorporated a juniors division, which introduced in hundreds of young players wanting to learn, compete, and share the sand Together with the execs. It was a uncommon possibility for youth athletes to generally be A part of A significant volleyball function in addition to a beneficial recruiting second for school packages in attendance.

A complete Picture gallery captured the essence of your Event—from high-traveling spikes and gritty digs to quiet times of focus and laughter among teammates. These pictures, extensively shared on the internet, assisted showcase the splendor and intimacy with the Activity in its most genuine environment.

With its good results, the Hermosa Seaside Open has sparked dialogue about its upcoming. Town leaders are Discovering a model similar to Manhattan Beach, where by the municipality could choose a bigger position in hosting the Event on a yearly basis. There’s also An even bigger purpose in sight: Hermosa is actively positioning itself to be a specified instruction website for the 2028 L. a. Olympics.

The 2024 Hermosa Seashore Open was extra than just a tournament. It had been a statement—evidence that even in an era of huge contracts and world wide broadcasts, Seashore volleyball’s heart however beats strongest while in the sand, surrounded by community.