Celebrating 70 Years of Judy Hoarfrost: A Life of Impact On and Off the Table

This past weekend, family and friends gathered at Steve Berliner’s Pickleball Pad to celebrate the 70th birthday of an American table tennis icon—Judy Bochenski Hoarfrost. The milestone was marked not just with cake, laughter, and sunshine, but with stories, hugs, and heartfelt admiration for a woman who has given so much to our sport and community.

A Legacy Forged in Competition and Leadership

From the time she joined the U.S. Open at age 11, Judy has carved out a historic legacy. As the youngest member of the groundbreaking Ping Pong Diplomacy Team that visited China in 1971, she played a key role in one of sport’s most influential moments.

Her competitive career includes:

• Six U.S. National Team Championships
• Multiple U.S. National titles
• Appearances in numerous World Championships

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After retiring from international play, Judy didn’t step away from the sport—she leaned in. As owner and General Manager of Paddle Palace, she has grown one of the sport’s most trusted and beloved brands in North America. Through decades of leadership, her dedication to service, innovation, and grassroots development continues to shape the lives of thousands of players.

Learn more about Judy’s story:
US Table Tennis Hall of Fame Profile
About Judy & Paddle Palace

Friends, Family, and Paddle Pals

The celebration brought together a multigenerational mix of table tennis friends, family, and community members. Among those who came to honor Judy were longtime friends and fellow legends, including Angie Officer, Heather & Burke Walls, Christian and Saeeda Lillieroos, Jiwei Xia, Jay Crystal, and Sean O’Neill.

The event, hosted at Steve Berliner’s lively and welcoming Pickleball Pad, included a festive canopy tent with a handmade sign reading “70 Rules.” Guests enjoyed pizza and cold drinks, shared stories from decades past, and reflected on Judy’s legacy both on and off the table.

A Life Still Inspiring

At 70, Judy remains a dynamic presence in the table tennis world. Whether winning national Pickleball titles, sponsoring USATT events with Nittaku balls, or sharing her wisdom with the Paddle Palace Team, Judy continues to uplift the sport she loves with energy, vision, and heart.

From all of us—past teammates, lifelong friends, and the entire table tennis community—Happy 70th Birthday, Judy. Your journey continues to inspire.