Nationwide — Laila Edwards is set to make history after earning a spot on Team USA’s women’s ice hockey roster for the 2026 Winter Olympics in Italy. She will become the first Black woman to represent the United States in women’s ice hockey at the Olympic Games.
Edwards, 21, is a senior at the University of Wisconsin and was named to the 23-player roster for the Milano Cortina Games, scheduled from February 6 to February 22. According to Black Enterprise, Team USA announced the lineup on Friday, January 2, confirming her place in the historic group.
The Cleveland Heights native has risen quickly through the ranks of elite hockey. She joined the U.S. women’s national team at 19, becoming the first Black woman to do so, and continued breaking barriers the following year.
At 20, Edwards became the youngest American to win the Most Valuable Player award at the women’s hockey world championships. Her performance helped the United States secure its 11th world championship title last April. She also became the first Black woman to win an IIHF Women’s World Championship.
The Olympic selection brought an emotional response from Edwards. “It still hasn’t really kicked in yet. Getting that call is like a dream come true,” she said. “Always had dreams of playing in the pros, but the biggest dream was to go to the Olympics for sure.”
Edwards will join a roster filled with experienced players, including Alex Carpenter, Megan Keller, Taylor Heise, and Cayla Barnes, as Team USA prepares for another Olympic run.
As the Games approach, Edwards’ family is hoping to be in Italy to witness the moment. A GoFundMe campaign was launched to help cover travel costs, with a message stating, “We are asking for your help now so that we can be there to cheer Laila, to surround her with the love and support of family.” It has so far raised nearly $19,000.