The 2024 Hermosa Seaside Open shipped a Exclusive type of magic, blending earth-course athleticism Along with the down-to-earth spirit that defines the beach volleyball Neighborhood. Held September 4–7 near the Hermosa Seaside Pier, this yr’s Match wasn’t only a halt on the aggressive circuit—it absolutely was a celebration from the sport’s origins, showcasing Olympians competing shoulder to shoulder with increasing stars and native heroes in a enthusiast-friendly, no-frills surroundings.

The occasion had no stadium seating or flashy fan zones. Rather, spectators collected round the courts, standing from the sand and sitting on Beach front towels because they cheered on elite athletes from just feet away. Structured with grassroots guidance and backed by sponsors like Wedbush Securities, the Match returned to a purer Model of the game, wherever community, Competitors, and link were the main focus.

Around the Women of all ages’s side, Olympians Kelly Cheng and Sara Hughes reminded Anyone why they’re deemed Amongst the very best on the earth. In a remarkable all-USC closing, Cheng and Hughes dropped the first established to Terese Cannon and Megan Kraft prior to roaring back to acquire the subsequent two. The determining established came down to the wire, with Cheng and Hughes edging out a 20–eighteen gain in a thrilling finish. The victory marked a triumphant instant of their write-up-Olympic marketing campaign and underscored their dominance heading into the subsequent AVP and Worldwide functions.

The Gentlemen’s closing highlighted Yet another Olympic-caliber clash. Previous NBA ahead turned Seaside volleyball standout Chase Budinger teamed up with Olympic veteran Miles Evans to confront off towards Miles Partain and Alex Ranghieri. Budinger and Evans proved as well powerful, successful in straight sets, 21–14 and 21–seventeen. Budinger’s physicality at the net and Evans’ sharp instincts designed them the unstoppable duo on the weekend.

Across four times of Perform, a hundred thirty teams competed in a very double-elimination format that retained followers on their own toes and athletes grinding via very long, sun-soaked days. The Match also bundled a juniors division, which introduced in countless youthful gamers desperate to discover, compete, and share the sand Along with the execs. It absolutely was a rare chance for youth athletes to get Element of An important volleyball event along with a useful recruiting second for college plans in attendance.

A full photo gallery captured the essence of the Event—from superior-flying spikes and gritty digs to quiet times of emphasis and laughter amid teammates. These photos, extensively shared online, served showcase the magnificence and intimacy on the Activity in its Sodo66 most authentic location.

With its accomplishment, the Hermosa Beach Open up has sparked dialogue about its foreseeable future. Town leaders are exploring a design comparable to Manhattan Seaside, where by the municipality could get a bigger role in hosting the Match on a yearly basis. There’s also a bigger aim in sight: Hermosa is actively positioning by itself to be a specified schooling website to the 2028 La Olympics.

The 2024 Hermosa Seaside Open was far more than simply a Match. It had been a statement—proof that even within an period of huge contracts and world broadcasts, Beach front volleyball’s coronary heart however beats strongest during the sand, surrounded by Group.