With the Lakers dismantling the Celtics in seven games, Nadal and Williams dominating Wimbledon and solidifying their spots at the top and FIFA crowning its 19th World Cup winners, one would believe there is nothing more to get excited about in the sporting world. Obviously, those individuals know nothing about the greatness that is the AVP Open at Hermosa Beach.

The weekend of July 16 through July 18, hundreds descend on the Strand in Hermosa Beach to take part in history with what many call the Wimbledon of beach volleyball. Going into its 26th year, the Hermosa Beach event is considered by many as the crown jewel of the AVP Tour.

On the men’s side, Phil Dalhausser and Todd Rogers are the natural favorites to catch their fifth consecutive Hermosa title, however, watch out for the likes of Matt Fuerbringer and Nick Lucena who just won their first open together at Virginia Beach a few weeks ago. Also looking to see some serious action at the 2010 Hermosa Open are: Casey Jennings and Brad Keenan, Sean Scott and John Hyden and Jake Gibb and Sean Rosenthal.

On the women’s side, a repeat of last year’s winning team of Elaine Youngs and Nicole Branagh is impossible with their breakup earlier this year, however, Branagh – with her new partner Misty May-Treanor – might be able to pull something off. Waiting in the wings are frontrunners Jennifer Kessy and April Ross, who are looking for their first ever Hermosa title, as well as Angie Akers and Tyra Turner, who plan to make the 2010 Hermosa Open ultra competitive.

The AVP Hermosa Beach Tour starts competition Friday with the Men’s and Women’s Qualifier, moves on to the Main Draw Competition on Saturday with it all culminating on Sunday, July 18, with the Men’s and Women’s Final.



Competition takes place on the north side of the Hermosa Beach Pier (1286 The Strand, Hermosa Beach). For more information, visit avp.com.