Laila Edwards: A Rising Star in Women’s Hockey

The 2026 Winter Olympics in Milan, Italy, are captivating audiences worldwide. Among the athletes vying for a medal is Laila Edwards, a standout player for the U.S. Women’s Hockey team. Edwards isn’t just a talented athlete; she’s a history-maker, becoming the first Black woman to represent the United States in women’s hockey internationally, since 2023. Her journey to the Olympics is a testament to dedication, perseverance, and the power of community support.

From Cleveland Heights to the Olympic Stage

Hailing from Cleveland Heights, Ohio – the same hometown as NFL stars Travis and Jason Kelce – Laila Edwards has quickly become a source of immense pride for her community. She currently plays collegiate hockey for the University of Wisconsin, honing her skills and preparing for the challenges of Olympic competition. Her family, deeply supportive of her dreams, faced a significant hurdle: the financial strain of traveling to Milan to cheer her on.

The Kelce Brothers Step In

Recognizing the importance of family support, the Edwards family launched a GoFundMe campaign to help cover travel expenses. What happened next was a heartwarming display of generosity. Travis and Jason Kelce, known for their on-field achievements and off-field philanthropy, stepped up in a big way, donating a remarkable $10,000 to the campaign. This substantial contribution helped the family surpass their $50,000 goal.

“OMG, thank you, so much for taking time out of your busy day to notice us little people and support us,” Laila’s mother, Charone Gray-Edwards, expressed her gratitude. “Like, that was huge because the Kelces don’t know us. The only connection is Cleveland Heights. I really appreciate it.”

A Family Affair in Milan

Thanks to the overwhelming support, including the Kelce brothers’ generosity and numerous smaller donations, Laila’s parents, Charone and Robert Edwards, along with ten other relatives and her 91-year-old grandmother, are now in Italy, cheering her on from the stands. Robert Edwards emphasized the impact of every contribution, stating, “We also look at the $10, $15, $20 donations… And that’s heartwarming, that’s awesome, and makes us feel really good that people wanted to put whatever money they had.”

Beyond Hockey: A Role Model for Future Generations

Laila Edwards’ story extends beyond her athletic achievements. She serves as an inspiration to aspiring athletes, particularly young Black women, demonstrating that dreams are attainable with hard work and determination. Her journey has been highlighted by the Kelce brothers on their popular “New Heights” podcast, initially in November 2023 when she made history with her team selection. While she communicates with Travis Kelce via social media, she hasn’t yet had the opportunity to meet the brothers in person.

The Kelce’s Olympic Enthusiasm

The Kelce brothers’ support for Edwards aligns with their broader enthusiasm for the Olympic Games. Jason Kelce’s wife, Kylie, is currently in Milan as a digital creator for NBC, providing behind-the-scenes coverage of the events. The entire family is undoubtedly rooting for Laila Edwards as she competes on the world stage.

You can learn more about Laila Edwards’ journey and the impact she’s making in the world of hockey at USA Hockey’s official website.