This year, the Global Gaming Expo (G2E) debuted a fresh competitive element with the inaugural G2E Dealer Championship, an initiative aimed at assessing the technical skills and game management of casino dealers.

A total of 34 dealers from various casino venues throughout the United States participated over a two-day event in Las Vegas. The evaluation criteria included guest service, technical precision, and overall game management.

After the initial rounds, competitors were reduced to 12 in the semifinals and six in the championship round. Each contestant was tasked with dealing both blackjack and roulette before panels of four judges, who were table game executives from participating casinos.

“The first-ever G2E Dealer Championship added an exhilarating new dimension to this year’s gathering,” said Korbi Carrison, vice president of the event at RX, one of the G2E organizers. “This competition honored the amazing talent, skill, and performance of casino dealers while underscoring their crucial contribution to the gaming experience. The event celebrated exceptional talent and reaffirmed G2E’s commitment to recognizing all aspects of the gaming sector.”

The championship culminated with 51-year-old Elleonor Hoffman from the Graton Resort & Casino in Sonoma County, California, clinching first place and receiving a top prize of $5,000.

Hoffman, who deals at dual-rate tables, joined Graton less than a year ago after struggling to find steady employment in Las Vegas. Prior to her work in land-based casinos, she spent 22 years as a table games dealer on cruise ships.

For Hoffman, the competition wasn’t fueled by monetary motivation. “I didn’t even consider the prize money,” she explained. “This accomplishment holds more significance for me. I can earn money, but this recognition is something they can’t take away.”

She remarked that participating enabled her to view her dealing skills for the first time. “Honestly, this was the first opportunity I’ve had to see myself in action since I’m typically positioned at the back of the table,” she added. “Watching myself on video and critiquing my performance made me realize, ‘Wow, I’m quite skilled at this.’”

Several coworkers from Graton Resort & Casino showed up to support her. “Many from Graton came to watch, and it means the world to me,” she said. “I am passionate about my job. For me, dealing is an art form, and I genuinely enjoy what I do.”

Four dealers from Las Vegas made it to the final round of six. The second-place title was claimed by Madalina “Maddy” Ristea from The Cosmopolitan, earning $3,000, while third place went to Marko Vekovic from Encore, who took home $2,000. Other finalists included Taras Ploshchanski from The Venetian, Milan Jesic from Bellagio, and Chaz Chim from Muckleshoot Casino in Washington state.

Along with her cash prize, Hoffman received a trophy and the G2E Dealer Championship Cup. Her name will be engraved on the cup, which will be on display at Graton Resort & Casino for one year.