Just like in diving, Mexico—particularly the state of Baja California—has become a powerhouse in beach volleyball, according to Juan Hernández Juárez, president of the Tijuana Beach Volleyball League.

Since the sport first became professional in Mexico, the country has had representation in 90% of all Olympic Games, a stark contrast to the performance in indoor volleyball.

“If we look at the results for beach volleyball and indoor volleyball in the Olympics, we’ll see that Mexico has been present in beach volleyball about 90% of the time. If we track Olympic participation since the sport began in Mexico, we’ve had a consistent 90% presence—whereas indoor volleyball only returned in 2016. So when you compare the numbers, the scale seems off. That leads us to ask: Where should more support go?” Hernández Juárez said.

Hernández Juárez was in Rosarito this past weekend organizing another event in the Tijuana Open Series, a recurring tournament aimed at promoting beach volleyball and developing the athletes who may represent Baja California at the national level.

More than 30 teams from across the state competed, ranging from youth to professional categories in both men’s and women’s divisions—including several local teams from Rosarito.

The tournament took place on the beach in front of the Rosarito Hotel and next to the municipal DIF parking lot.

In 2025, Hernández Juárez will mark 27 years organizing this beach volleyball circuit.

“These series are played every two weeks starting in the spring and running through summer. We’re here because the Tijuana boardwalk is under renovation, so I reached out to the Rosarito Volleyball League for support in hosting this event. It’s not a qualifying round, but it is official—and from here we choose players for CONADE Games, now known as the National Olympics,” he explained.

Matches for intermediate and open categories were held on Saturday in both divisions, while Sunday featured the novice and “kids” categories, starting from age 11.