October 8, 2026 | Lily Yip Table Tennis Center | Dunellen, New Jersey
The U.S. Table Tennis Hall of Fame brought together an extraordinary gathering of Olympians, Paralympians, national champions, coaches, and some of the most influential figures in American table tennis history on October 8, 2026, at the Lily Yip Table Tennis Center in Dunellen, New Jersey.
The evening celebrated the induction of Noga Nir-Kistler, Juan Liu, and Mark Hazinski into the Hall of Fame, along with the presentation of the Mark Matthews Lifetime Achievement Award to Lily Yip.
Beyond the awards themselves, the evening was a celebration of friendships, shared history, and a lifetime of contributions to the sport.
Celebrating the Class of 2026
Noga Nir-Kistler was honored posthumously for her distinguished Paralympic career and contributions to American para table tennis. Frank Roth delivered a heartfelt tribute highlighting Noga’s perseverance, competitive spirit, leadership, and lasting influence on teammates and friends.
Juan Liu, a U.S. Olympian and multiple national and U.S. Open champion, was introduced by Winston Wang, who shared his experiences as her friend and student. Juan’s journey from China’s elite table tennis program to representing the United States at the Tokyo Olympic Games demonstrated her determination and commitment to excellence. Her continued work as a coach ensures that her influence extends to future generations.
Mark Hazinski, a 2004 Olympian and U.S. Men’s National Team Coach, was introduced by his longtime mentor, Dan Seemiller. Their emotional exchange was among the evening’s highlights. Mark reflected on the coaches, teammates, family members, and friends who helped guide him from his early days in South Bend, Indiana, to the Olympic Games and eventually to coaching the next generation of American athletes.
Lily Yip, a two-time Olympian, national champion, and longtime coach, received the Mark Matthews Lifetime Achievement Award in the very building that bears her name. Hall of Fame President Sean O’Neill, Lily’s longtime friend and Olympic teammate, presented the award, reflecting on more than three decades of shared experiences, competition, and friendship.
The evening also included a special proclamation from Dunellen Mayor Jason F. Cilento, recognizing Lily’s accomplishments and contributions to the local community.
A Special Gathering of American Table Tennis History
One of the most meaningful aspects of the evening was the opportunity to bring together individuals who have played important roles in the development of American table tennis over the past five decades.
We were particularly thrilled to welcome three members of the original U.S. Ping-Pong Diplomacy Team: Olga Soltesz, Connie Sweeris, and Judy Hoarfrost.
Their participation in the historic 1971 exchange with China helped open doors between two nations and demonstrated how sport can build friendships and understanding across political and cultural boundaries.
Having these pioneering members of American table tennis history with us was a special honor. We were equally delighted to welcome Dell Sweeris, whose longstanding contributions to the sport and the Hall of Fame have helped preserve and celebrate its history.
The evening also brought together an exceptional group of Mark Matthews Lifetime Achievement Award recipients.
With Patty Martinez-Kahn, Donna Sakai, Dell Sweeris, David Sakai, Connie Sweeris, Mal Anderson, Dan Seemiller, and Lily Yip all in attendance, this may have been the largest gathering of recipients of the award in one place.
Eight individuals whose contributions span generations of American table tennis were together to celebrate the achievements of their peers. It was a wonderful reminder of the history, friendships, and shared commitment that connect our sport.
We were also pleased to have several members of the U.S. Table Tennis Hall of Fame Board of Directors in attendance, including Mal Anderson, Christian Lillieroos, Patty Martinez-Kahn, Donna Sakai, Derek May and Sean O’Neill.
Their continued leadership and support help the Hall of Fame carry out its mission of recognizing excellence and preserving American table tennis history.
Thank You to Lily Yip and the Lily Yip Table Tennis Center
An event of this size requires considerable planning, organization, and volunteer support.
The Hall of Fame extends its sincere appreciation to Lily Yip, the Lily Yip Table Tennis Center, her family, staff, club members, and the many volunteers who helped make the evening possible.
From preparing the venue and coordinating the dinner to welcoming guests and assisting throughout the ceremony, their contributions helped create an enjoyable and memorable experience for everyone.
Lily also worked tirelessly to bring together businesses, community partners, and individual sponsors who generously supported the event.
The friendships and partnerships she has developed throughout her career were evident in the enthusiasm and generosity of those who helped make the celebration possible.
Major League Table Tennis Continues Its Support
A special thank you goes to Major League Table Tennis (MLTT) for generously underwriting the cost of the induction dinner.
This marked the third consecutive year that MLTT has supported the Hall of Fame celebration.
MLTT founder Flint Lane addressed the audience and shared his vision of creating opportunities for young American players to pursue professional table tennis careers in their own country.
His remarks provided a fitting connection between honoring the achievements of previous generations and building opportunities for the next.
The Hall of Fame deeply appreciates MLTT’s continued financial support and its commitment to preserving and celebrating the history of American table tennis.
Supporting the Next Generation: The Si & Patty Wasserman Championships
The Hall of Fame celebration was held in conjunction with the 20th Si and Patty Wasserman Junior and Open Table Tennis Championships, held October 9-11 at the Lily Yip Table Tennis Center.
We extend our sincere gratitude to the Si and Patty Wasserman Foundation for its generous sponsorship of the youth championships and continued support of junior table tennis development.
These championships provide opportunities for young athletes to compete, improve, and gain valuable tournament experience.
Hosting the Hall of Fame celebration alongside a junior tournament created an especially meaningful connection between generations.
Young players had the opportunity to meet Olympians, national champions, coaches, and individuals who helped shape the sport in the United States.
It was a reminder that today’s young competitors are following in the footsteps of those who came before them.
Recognizing Our Additional Sponsors and Supporters
The Hall of Fame would also like to recognize David and Donna Sakai and Senoda, Inc. for generously providing the printed banquet programs (click to see this year’s program) and the Lifetime Achievement Award presentation piece.
We also thank Word4Asia (W4A Consulting International), the Law Office of ZhuYu Hu, Jack Ho plus the additional businesses, organizations, and individual sponsors whose generosity contributed to the evening’s success.
Much of this support came through the personal relationships and partnerships Lily Yip has developed over the years.
We are equally grateful to our presenters, the Hall of Fame Board of Directors, the volunteers, and everyone who traveled to New Jersey to honor the Class of 2026.
Preserving the Past, Inspiring the Future
Since its establishment in 1979, the U.S. Table Tennis Hall of Fame has worked to recognize the outstanding players, officials, and contributors who have made lasting contributions to American table tennis.
The 2026 ceremony captured that mission in a particularly meaningful way.
From members of the original Ping-Pong Diplomacy Team to Olympic and Paralympic Family, longtime Hall of Fame supporters, lifetime achievement honorees, and aspiring junior players, the weekend brought together generations of people connected by their love of the sport.
We congratulate Noga Nir-Kistler, Juan Liu, Mark Hazinski, and Lily Yip on their well-deserved recognition.
And to everyone who made the celebration possible, thank you.
The history of American table tennis is not simply a collection of championships and medals. It is the story of the people who built the sport, the friendships they developed, and the opportunities they created for future generations.
Sean P. O’Neill, OLY
President, U.S. Table Tennis Hall of Fame
