The 2024 Hermosa Beach Open up sent a Particular style of magic, blending globe-course athleticism Along with the down-to-earth spirit that defines the beach volleyball Local community. Held September four–seven near the Hermosa Seaside Pier, this 12 months’s Event wasn’t just a end over the competitive circuit—it was a celebration on the Activity’s origins, showcasing Olympians competing shoulder to shoulder with rising stars and local heroes within a supporter-welcoming, no-frills surroundings.
The function experienced no stadium seating or flashy supporter zones. Instead, spectators gathered across the courts, standing while in the sand and sitting on Seaside towels because they cheered on elite athletes from just ft away. Organized with grassroots help and backed by sponsors like Wedbush Securities, the Match returned into a purer Edition of the game, exactly where Neighborhood, Levels of competition, and connection had been the focus.
On the Ladies’s side, 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 earn the following two. The deciding established came all the way down to the wire, with Cheng and Hughes edging out a twenty–18 gain in the thrilling finish. The victory marked a triumphant instant inside their publish-Olympic marketing campaign and underscored their dominance heading into the following AVP and international situations.
The Gentlemen’s last showcased Yet another Olympic-caliber clash. Previous NBA forward turned Beach front volleyball Sodo66 standout Chase Budinger teamed up with Olympic veteran Miles Evans to experience off against Miles Partain and Alex Ranghieri. Budinger and Evans proved far too effective, profitable in straight sets, 21–14 and 21–17. Budinger’s physicality at The online and Evans’ sharp instincts created them the unstoppable duo of your weekend.
Across 4 days of Participate in, a hundred thirty teams competed in the double-elimination structure that stored lovers on their toes and athletes grinding by means of extensive, Sunlight-soaked times. The Event also integrated a juniors division, which brought in many hundreds of young players wanting to learn, compete, and share the sand Together with the professionals. It was a exceptional opportunity for youth athletes for being Component of An important volleyball event as well as a precious recruiting instant for faculty applications in attendance.
A full Photograph gallery captured the essence on the Match—from significant-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 conversation about its future. Town leaders are Checking out a design much like Manhattan Seaside, exactly where the municipality could consider a bigger role in hosting the Match each year. There’s also a bigger goal in sight: Hermosa is actively positioning alone to become a designated training site with the 2028 La Olympics.
The 2024 Hermosa Seaside Open up was additional than just a Event. It had been a statement—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.