Laila Edwards is making history as the first Black woman to play for the U.S. Women’s National Hockey Team. At just 19, the University of Wisconsin junior is not only breaking barriers but also inspiring young Black girls to dream big. She’s proving that anything is possible, even in sports where representation has been low.
Her achievements speak volumes. Edwards led Wisconsin to a national championship and won the 2024 Bob Allen Women’s Player of the Year award. She also earned a spot on Forbes’ 2025 North America 30 Under 30 list in sports. Her journey from a young skater to a hockey trailblazer is a story of passion, talent, and resilience.
A Powerful Legacy on and off the Ice
Laila Edwards is not just making waves on the ice—she’s also making an impact off it. Her role as a pioneer in hockey means a lot to young Black girls who never saw anyone like them in the sport. When Edwards competes, she knows she carries the hopes of many.
“It’s great to see someone that looks like you at that level, but then to see someone succeed at that level is even more important,” Edwards said. Her words reflect the pride and responsibility she feels as a role model.
Growing up, Edwards didn’t see many Black players in hockey, especially women. Her commitment to being the role model she never had is strong. She wants young girls to see her success and believe they can achieve the same.
From Backyard Skates to National Championships
Edwards’ love for hockey started at home. Her father, who also played the sport, introduced her to skating as soon as she could walk. By the age of two or three, she was already on the ice. By six, she was playing hockey seriously.
Her family played a big role in shaping her journey. Despite the lack of representation in the sport, Edwards stayed focused. She became a standout player, leading her college team to success and earning national recognition.
Her journey wasn’t always easy, but her passion and family support helped her thrive. Now, she’s using her platform to make hockey more accessible to all.
Making Hockey More Accessible to Everyone
One of Edwards’ main goals is to address the lack of accessibility in hockey. She knows the sport is expensive and not as easy to start as other sports like basketball.
“It’s really hard to access, unfortunately. It’s not like you can just go skate in your backyard versus you can bounce a basketball in your backyard,” she said. Edwards wants to break down these barriers, making it easier for kids of all backgrounds to play.
Recently, Edwards participated in the Red Bull Light the Lamp event. The event combined hockey with mini-golf elements, encouraging people who had never played hockey to give it a try. She loved how it brought together people of all ages, races, and genders.
A Bright Future Ahead
Looking forward, Edwards wants to be remembered as more than just a great hockey player. She aims to leave a legacy as a kind person and a source of inspiration.
“I want [young Black girls] to see that I was at that level, but also that I succeeded at that level and I was one of the top people at that level,” she said. Edwards hopes to show that not only can you reach great heights, but you can also shine once you get there.
Her story is a beacon of hope for many. She’s showing the world that with talent and perseverance, barriers can be broken, and new paths can be forged.
