In this edition of the Industry Insider, we spoke with Elleonor Hoffman, dealer at Graton Resort and winner of the inaugural 2025 G2E Dealer Championship, on her journey into the gaming and hospitality industry, the significance of winning the first-ever G2E Dealer Championship, and how the competition is elevating the dealer profession.

Tell us a little about yourself and your journey into the gaming industry. What inspired you to become a dealer, and what do you enjoy most about your role?

I have been part of the hospitality industry since I was 16 years old, and creating memorable experiences for guests has always been my passion. This passion has opened incredible opportunities for me, including traveling the world while working in the cruise industry for more than 20 years. During that time, I also had the opportunity to build a successful career in the casino industry, allowing me to expand my expertise in both gaming and hospitality while serving guests from diverse cultures around the world. 

Winning the first-ever G2E Dealer Championship in 2025 is an incredible accomplishment. What motivated you to compete, and what was it like hearing your name announced as the winner?

What motivated me to compete was the incredible belief and support of the people I work with. My Graton family had confidence in me from the very beginning, and that trust meant everything. Their encouragement inspired me to give my very best, and my biggest motivation was to bring the championship trophy home for them. Hearing my name announced as the winner was an unforgettable moment. I felt honored, humbled, and incredibly proud—not just for myself, but for everyone who believed in me and supported me throughout the journey. Winning the first-ever G2E Dealer Championship in Las Vegas is a dream come true. 

Since winning the G2E Dealer Championship, how has the experience impacted your career, confidence, or professional opportunities?

First, I want to thank Graton for giving me the opportunity to work for a company that truly values its people. That support and appreciation have meant a great deal to me. Even though other opportunities have come my way, I chose to stay because I believe in the culture and the people I work with. Winning the G2E Dealer Championship has had a tremendous impact on my career. It has strengthened my confidence, expanded my professional opportunities, and allowed me to represent both Graton and the dealer profession on a larger stage. The recognition has been exciting and rewarding, but more importantly, it has inspired me to continue striving for excellence, helping others grow, and staying true to the values that brought me here. It reminds me that there is always a bigger world of opportunities ahead when you work hard, stay humble, and remain passionate about what you do.  

The G2E Dealer Championship celebrates the skill, precision, and professionalism of dealers across the industry. From your perspective, why is it important to recognize dealers in this way, and what does the competition mean for the industry as a whole?

Without skilled and professional dealers, the casino would lose much of the personal interaction and trust that defines the table games experience. Recognizing them this way will bring excitement and will encourage people to do their best or bring their A Game! And again, this help to open more opportunities for dealers who are dreaming to make it big in their future! 

As we prepare for the 2026 G2E Dealer Championship, what would you say to dealers who may be nominated this year? What makes the experience worthwhile, and what advice would you share to help them make the most of the opportunity, regardless of the outcome?

My advice to every dealer who is nominated this year is to trust in your abilities, your experience, and the skills you’ve developed throughout your career. This is your opportunity to shine on one of the biggest stages in our profession—the pinnacle of the casino industry. Most importantly, enjoy the experience. Have fun, be yourself, and perform to the best of your ability. Remember that being selected to compete is already an incredible achievement. Regardless of the final outcome, you are all winners because you’ve earned the opportunity to represent your team, your casino, and your profession with pride.