6-Man Beach Volleyball Tournament Returns For 50th Year

MANHATTAN BEACH, CA — The Charlie Saikley 6-Man Beach Volleyball Tournament returns to the sands of Manhattan Beach this weekend for its 50th year.

Created by Charley Saikley with help from the city in 1974, the tournament is known for introducing young people to the sport and celebrating as a community. This year's tournament will take place on Aug. 2 and 3 at the Manhattan Beach Pier from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

"Saikley was legendary with the creation of tournaments that focused on the core components of beach volleyball: world-class talent combined with the beach lifestyle," the city said.

Saikley passed away 19 years ago this summer and was known as the "Godfather of Beach Volleyball." He was a school teacher at El Segundo High School in the 1960s and also worked in the Manhattan Beach Parks and Recreation Department during his off-hours and summers.

When it was created, the 6-Man was the first city-organized volleyball instruction program in Southern California.

With the help of Saikley's family, Manhattan Beach aims to bring back the all-inclusive, family-friendly feel to the event. 2024 marks the 10th year of the Jr. 6-Man, which takes place on Aug 4.

During the tournament, Manhattan Beach Boulevard from Ocean Drive to Manhattan Avenue will be closed as well as the Lower and Upper Pier Parking lots.