The 2024 Hermosa Seaside Open sent a Particular kind of magic, blending planet-class athleticism Along with the down-to-earth spirit that defines the Beach front volleyball Group. Held September four–seven close to the Hermosa Beach Pier, this year’s tournament wasn’t simply a prevent over the aggressive circuit—it had been a celebration on the sport’s origins, showcasing Olympians competing shoulder to shoulder with mounting stars and local heroes inside of a fan-pleasant, no-frills natural environment.

The event had no stadium seating or flashy fan zones. Alternatively, spectators collected round the courts, standing during the sand and sitting down on Beach front towels since they cheered on elite athletes from just toes absent. Structured with grassroots aid and backed by sponsors like Wedbush Securities, the Event returned to the purer Variation of the sport, where by Group, Opposition, and connection had been the focus.

On the women’s facet, Olympians Kelly Cheng and Sara Hughes reminded everyone why they’re considered Amongst the most effective on the globe. Inside of a spectacular all-USC ultimate, Cheng and Hughes dropped the initial set to Terese Cannon and Megan Kraft before roaring again to acquire the next two. The selecting set came all the way down to the wire, with Cheng and Hughes edging out a 20–eighteen acquire within a thrilling complete. The victory marked a triumphant minute in their write-up-Olympic campaign and underscored their dominance heading into the next AVP and Global activities.

The men’s closing featured A further Olympic-caliber clash. Former NBA ahead turned Seaside 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–fourteen and 21–seventeen. Budinger’s physicality at the net and Evans’ sharp instincts designed them the unstoppable duo in the weekend.

Throughout 4 days of Enjoy, 130 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 Sodo66 learn, compete, and share the sand Together with the execs. It absolutely was a uncommon possibility for youth athletes to generally be A part of A significant volleyball function in addition to a valuable recruiting second for college plans in attendance.

A complete Picture gallery captured the essence with the Event—from superior-traveling spikes and gritty digs to silent times of aim 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 design similar to Manhattan Beach, where the municipality could choose a bigger position in internet hosting the tournament on a yearly basis. There’s also An even bigger purpose in sight: Hermosa is actively positioning by itself to be a specified education web site for your 2028 L. a. Olympics.

The 2024 Hermosa Seashore Open was extra than just a tournament. It absolutely was an announcement—evidence that even in an period of huge contracts and international broadcasts, Beach front volleyball’s coronary heart nonetheless beats strongest in the sand, surrounded by Local community.