The 2024 Hermosa Beach Open shipped a Distinctive type of magic, Mixing world-class athleticism with the down-to-earth spirit that defines the Seaside volleyball Group. Held September four–7 near the Hermosa Seaside Pier, this calendar year’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 increasing stars and local heroes within a supporter-welcoming, no-frills atmosphere.

The function had no stadium seating or flashy admirer zones. In its place, spectators collected around the courts, standing within the sand and sitting on beach 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, Competitors, and relationship ended up the main target.

To the Gals’s aspect, Olympians Kelly Cheng and Sara Hughes reminded Absolutely everyone why they’re regarded Among the many greatest on earth. Within a dramatic all-USC final, Cheng and Hughes dropped the main established to Terese Cannon and Megan Kraft ahead of roaring back to gain the subsequent two. The choosing set arrived down to the wire, with Cheng and Hughes edging out a twenty–18 win in a very thrilling end. The victory marked a triumphant moment inside their submit-Olympic marketing campaign and underscored their dominance heading into the subsequent AVP and international situations.

The Adult men’s last showcased One more Olympic-caliber clash. Previous NBA forward turned Beach front volleyball 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 times of Engage in, a hundred thirty teams competed in the double-elimination structure that stored lovers on their toes and athletes grinding by way of extensive, Sunlight-soaked days. The Event also included a juniors division, which brought in countless youthful players desirous to understand, compete, and share the sand Along with the execs. It absolutely was a rare chance for youth athletes for being Portion of a major volleyball occasion plus a important recruiting minute for school courses in attendance.

An entire Image gallery captured the essence from the tournament—from large-flying spikes and gritty digs to peaceful moments of target and laughter amid teammates. These illustrations or photos, commonly shared on line, served showcase the beauty and intimacy from the sport in its most reliable location.

With its results, the Hermosa Seashore Open up has sparked discussion about its potential. City leaders are exploring a product just like Manhattan Seashore, in which the municipality could get a larger role in web hosting the Match each year. There’s also a bigger goal in sight: Hermosa is actively positioning alone to become a designated schooling web page for that 2028 La Olympics.

The 2024 Hermosa Beach Sodo66 Open up was a lot more than just a Match. It was a press release—proof that even within an era of big contracts and world broadcasts, Seashore volleyball’s heart however beats strongest inside the sand, surrounded by community.