Hermosa Seaside Open up Recap: Olympians Seize Titles in Return to Roots

The 2024 Hermosa Seaside Open delivered a Specific sort of magic, Mixing planet-course athleticism Together with the down-to-earth spirit that defines the Beach front volleyball Neighborhood. Held September four–seven near the Hermosa Beach Pier, this calendar year’s Event wasn’t merely a quit around the competitive circuit—it had been a celebration from the Activity’s origins, showcasing Olympians competing shoulder to shoulder with growing stars and local heroes inside of a supporter-helpful, no-frills setting.

The event had no stadium seating or flashy supporter zones. Rather, spectators gathered throughout the courts, standing while in the sand and sitting down on Seashore towels because they cheered on elite athletes from just ft absent. Arranged with grassroots guidance and backed by sponsors like Wedbush Securities, the Match returned to your purer Model of the sport, the place Local community, competition, and connection were the main target.

Over the Gals’s facet, Olympians Kelly Cheng and Sara Hughes reminded everyone why they’re considered Amongst the finest on the globe. In a very spectacular all-USC closing, Cheng and Hughes dropped the main established to Terese Cannon and Megan Kraft before roaring back to win the next two. The selecting set arrived right down to the wire, with Cheng and Hughes edging out a 20–eighteen acquire inside a thrilling complete. The victory marked a triumphant second 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 Beach front volleyball standout Chase Budinger teamed up with Olympic veteran Miles Evans to experience off towards Miles Partain and Alex Ranghieri. Budinger and Evans proved much too highly 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 Perform, 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 Sodo66 days. The Match also bundled a juniors division, which brought in many youthful players desirous to study, contend, and share the sand With all the professionals. It absolutely was a rare chance for youth athletes being part of a major volleyball function and also a valuable recruiting moment 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 focus and laughter among teammates. These pictures, extensively shared on the web, served showcase the attractiveness and intimacy of your sport in its most authentic environment.

With its results, the Hermosa Beach front Open up has sparked conversation about its potential. Metropolis leaders are Checking out a model similar to Manhattan Seaside, the place the municipality could acquire a bigger job in hosting the tournament each year. There’s also A much bigger target in sight: Hermosa is actively positioning alone to be a specified teaching internet site for that 2028 La Olympics.

The 2024 Hermosa Beach Open up was extra than simply a tournament. It was a press release—proof that even in an period of huge contracts and international broadcasts, Beach front volleyball’s coronary heart even now beats strongest while in the sand, surrounded by community.