Replay the Rays & Rallies: 29th Annual GMHLA Tournament Recap

The Greater Milwaukee Hotel & Lodging Association (GMHLA) officially ushered in the sunny season with the 29th Anniversary Volleyball Tournament on May 28, 2026, at the Root River Center.

​Unlike last year’s nail-biting weather, Mother Nature fully cooperated this time around. It was an absolutely beautiful, sun-drenched day, providing the perfect backdrop for hospitality professionals and industry partners from across the Milwaukee area to connect, unwind, and smash some volleyballs before the busy summer rush takes over.

A Star-Studded Lineup of Competitors

The energy on the courts was contagious as 14 spirited teams stepped up to the net. Representing everything from premier downtown properties to local tourism bureaus and trusted industry suppliers, the camaraderie was unmatched—though the competitive drive was as fierce as ever!

A massive round of applause goes out to all of this year's participating teams who brought their absolute best to the sand:

• Aloft Milwaukee Downtown
• Anchor Solutions
• Courtyard Milwaukee Downtown
• Hampton Inn & Suites Milwaukee/Franklin
• Hilton Milwaukee
• Hyatt Regency Milwaukee
• The Pfister Hotel
• Saint Kate - The Arts Hotel
• The Trade Hotel Milwaukee
• Tri-North Builders
• Visit Brookfield & Brookfield Conference Center
• Visit Milwaukee
• Weathershield
• Wisconsin Center District 

□ 1st Place (Champions): Anchor Solutions

The 2026 Leaderboard

After a full afternoon of spectacular rallies, diving saves, and high-stakes match points, a new champion emerged at the top of the podium!

• 🥇 1st Place (Champions): Anchor Solutions
• 🥈 2nd Place: Tri-North Builders
• 🥉 3rd Place: Saint Kate - The Arts Hotel

A huge congratulations to Anchor Solutions for taking home the crown, and to the powerhouse crews from Tri-North Builders and Saint Kate - The Arts Hotel for rounding out an incredible top three!

□ 2nd Place: Tri-North Builders

Strong Sponsorship & Community Support

This annual tradition wouldn't be possible without the incredible backing of GMHLA’s dedicated industry partners. Sponsor support was exceptionally strong this year, ensuring that everyone stayed refreshed and walked away with great memories:

• Tri-North Builders stepped up once again to keep the energy high and the good times rolling for all the attendees.
• Sid Grinker Restoration showed immense support, helping to foster the incredible community bond that makes this tournament a highlight of the year.

□ 3rd Place: Saint Kate - The Arts Hotel

A Tradition Worth Celebrating

For 29 years, this tournament has served as a vital bridge for hospitality teams and supplier supporters to step away from the daily grind, enjoy the sunshine, and celebrate the vibrant Milwaukee lodging community.

A special thank you goes out to the team at Root River Center for their outstanding hospitality and for keeping the event running flawlessly under the beautiful May sun.
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We can't wait to see everyone back on the sand next year for the big 30th Anniversary! Until then, let's carry this incredible teamwork and energy into a fantastic summer season.