Laila Edwards, a 22-year-old University of Wisconsin senior, has made history by becoming the first Black woman to join the U.S. women's Olympic ice hockey team at the 2026 Winter Games in Italy.
Edwards, who was just three years old when she first laced up her skates and onto the ice, said that representing Team USA is "an incredible honor" and a role model for others, particularly young girls from underrepresented communities. She recalled that growing up as one of the few female players on her team, Edwards felt like she belonged but also faced instances of intimidation.
Despite facing obstacles in her early days as a hockey player, Edwards persevered and went on to become one of the best women's hockey players in the nation. In 2023, she made history by becoming the first African American player to join the U.S. national women's team.
Edwards' advice for young girls who want to play ice hockey but are hesitant is simple: "There's no rule book that says hockey is for boys." She emphasizes that with dedication and passion, anyone can pursue their dreams, regardless of background or identity.
For Edwards, playing hockey is more than just a sport - it's her safe space where she can be herself and express her love for the game. When asked about what drives her to succeed, Edwards said she's thankful to represent Team USA at the Winter Olympics, not only for the opportunity but also as a way to give back to those who have supported her.
As Edwards takes the ice in Italy, she is breaking down barriers and inspiring a new generation of young girls to lace up their skates and pursue their passions. Her journey is a testament to the power of perseverance and determination, and a reminder that with hard work and dedication, anything is possible.
Edwards, who was just three years old when she first laced up her skates and onto the ice, said that representing Team USA is "an incredible honor" and a role model for others, particularly young girls from underrepresented communities. She recalled that growing up as one of the few female players on her team, Edwards felt like she belonged but also faced instances of intimidation.
Despite facing obstacles in her early days as a hockey player, Edwards persevered and went on to become one of the best women's hockey players in the nation. In 2023, she made history by becoming the first African American player to join the U.S. national women's team.
Edwards' advice for young girls who want to play ice hockey but are hesitant is simple: "There's no rule book that says hockey is for boys." She emphasizes that with dedication and passion, anyone can pursue their dreams, regardless of background or identity.
For Edwards, playing hockey is more than just a sport - it's her safe space where she can be herself and express her love for the game. When asked about what drives her to succeed, Edwards said she's thankful to represent Team USA at the Winter Olympics, not only for the opportunity but also as a way to give back to those who have supported her.
As Edwards takes the ice in Italy, she is breaking down barriers and inspiring a new generation of young girls to lace up their skates and pursue their passions. Her journey is a testament to the power of perseverance and determination, and a reminder that with hard work and dedication, anything is possible.
This is so cool! 
Laila Edwards is a total inspiration! I mean, she's already making history at such a young age, and it's amazing to think about how far she's come from when she was just 3 years old playing hockey. It's clear that ice hockey isn't just a sport for boys, but something that can be enjoyed by anyone who loves it, regardless of their background or identity.
️ is finally cool again now that it's not just for dudes 
can't wait to see Laila Edwards crush it on the ice in Italy 
guess all those years of being the only girl on her team paid off 
. feels like we've been waiting forever for a black woman to represent team usa in the olympics, about time 
hope she gives some pointers to all the young girls out there who wanna give hockey a try 
Laila Edwards' achievement is more than just a milestone for the US women's Olympic ice hockey team - it's a game-changer for young girls from underrepresented communities who want to play ice hockey but feel discouraged by societal norms. Her story is super inspiring, you know? 
. Did u know she was just 3 yrs old when she started playing? 
And now she's about to make history at the 2026 Winter Olympics! 
️. But it's not just about the numbers - it's about the impact she's having on young girls from underrepresented communities who are looking up to her as a role model 
.
In 2023, Laila Edwards became the FIRST African American player to join the US national women's team 
! It's all about breaking down those barriers and creating opportunities for more girls of color to pursue their dreams 
. We should be celebrating this, not just on the ice but in life! 
, and has been skating since she was 3 
. She's got a degree in communications 
and is a social justice advocate 
Is it just about promoting diversity and inclusion, or is there something more sinister at play? 
And have you noticed how Edwards started playing hockey when she was just three years old? That's just too convenient. They're probably trying to brainwash us into believing that hockey is for everyone, but what if it's not? What if it's only for those who are chosen?