With 45 teams competing, the legendary Charlie Saikley 6-Man Beach Volleyball Tournament hits the sand south of the Manhattan Beach Pier today (Thursday, July 30) and Friday (July 31) beginning at 9 a.m.

Known for fun, competitive play with many themed teams playing in costumes, the 2015 installment features top players such as Matt Fuerbringer, Phil Dahlhauser, Nick Lucena, Casey Jennings, Nancy Reynolds, Curt Toppel, Lisa Arce, Jen Snyder, and Amy Hvitfeldtsen, said Jessica Vincent, recreation services manager with the City of Manhattan Beach Parks and Recreation department which puts on the tournament.

The 2015 tournament also includes 2014 defending champions in the Men's Masters category, Good Stuff; the Men's Open, 12th Street/The Deck, and the Women's Open, 900 Club. The Open division has a Men's and Women's category for ages 15 and older; the Master's Division is for Men 40 and older and Women 35 and older.

In addition to costumes, props, and a festive air, the tournament also draws professional athletes who play in the mix playing alongside local beach volleyball stars.

The tournament is open to spectators at no charge and kicks off the International Surf Festival, whose ocean- and sand-themed events run this through Sunday at South Bay beach locations, including Manhattan Beach.