Due to an increase in attendance and chaos at the Charles Saikley Six Man volleyball tournament over the years, the Manhattan Beach City Council will start discussions regarding the tournament on Nov. 15. The monetary expense and uncontrolled party atmosphere of the Charles Saikley Six Man Tournament demand changes in this 54-year Manhattan Beach tradition.
With over 60,000 people attending last year, roughly double the population of Manhattan Beach, the city experienced a higher crime rate, according to Manhattan Beach Chief of Police Eve Irvine, and subsequently, an increased security expense. Last year there were also a significant number of sponsored strand parties, which increased the accessibility of alcohol.
In order to cover the cost of this tournament the council set aside $202,000 and raised the entry fees to cover the cost. However, with a decrease in teams applying because of the entry cost, the city was left with a $100,000 deficit.
In order to cover the deficit of the tournament the city would be forced to use public funds. It is unfair to use taxpayers’ money to fund an event in which many residents do not participate and are outraged over.
Maintenance is also a key issue in the tournament. With vomit, litter, urine and trash covering the strand, clean up costs for the event run over $20,000.
The city has already taken previous action to address intoxication at the Six Man, such as placing checkpoints at entrances to the beach, maintaining a strict alcohol ban, limiting the number of team tents and coolers, prohibiting amplified music or bullhorns and increasing police patrol, but these efforts are not enough.
To solve the problems of overcrowding and chaos, the tournament should be held after Labor Day. Changing the date would discourage many non-local-residents from attending, as most students would already be in school. Therefore, it would decrease the number of attendants and cut the costs of security and maintenance.
According to Manhattan Beach City Council member Amy Howorth, the city council is considering moving the tournament to a Tuesday and Wednesday. Though this might decrease the number of non-locals, it would also discourage overall participation in the tournament because many team members may have to work.
Another measure that should be taken to reduce the levels of crime is the passage of a city ordinance that would not allow stores, restaurants, and bars in the area to sell alcohol during the weekend of the tournament. This would reduce the amount of public intoxication arrests and the need and cost of security.
Despite these problems, some argue that the tournament is a long-standing tradition and the city should not change or cancel it. However, the Six Man was created for residents to enjoy and appreciate beach volleyball, not as an excuse for a party.
The Six Man Tournament is a time-honored tradition and, therefore, should not be cancelled. However, in order for the tournament to continue, changes are needed to ensure safety of residents and attendants.
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