Laila Edwards is set to make hstory at the 2026 Winter Olympics — and her family hopes to be there to see it

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Laila Edwards is set to make history as the first Black woman to play ice hockey for Team USA at the Winter Olympics, a barrier‑breaking moment that will unfold when the 2026 Games begin Feb. 6 in Milan and Cortina d’Ampezzo, Italy.

As she prepares for the biggest stage of her career, her family is working to raise enough money to support her from the stands, something they have done at every major moment of her life on the ice.

To make that possible, the Edwards family launched a GoFundMe that has already raised nearly $44,000 toward its $50,000 goal.

GoFundMe Aims to Bring Laila Edwards’ Biggest Supporters to Italy

The fundraiser explains why the trip matters so deeply to the family and to Laila herself. Her mother, Charone, has rarely missed a game. She remembers the night in Cleveland Heights when the hometown crowd cheered so loudly that Team USA players jokingly crowned Laila the “Queen of Cleveland.”

“Our family was there, including her grandmothers, and her teammates couldn’t believe the love she received,” Charone said. “We want to surround her with that same love at the Olympics.”

“We can only do it with your help,” the family wrote.

Laila Edwards: A Rising Star Reaches a Historic First at Winter Olympics

Edwards’ journey to the Olympics reflects years of discipline, resilience and community support. She became the youngest American MVP at the women’s world championships and helped Team USA secure its 11th world title. Her size, skill and calm presence have made her one of the most promising young forwards in the country.

Her Olympic debut will mark a milestone for representation in a sport still working to broaden its reach. For young Black girls who rarely see themselves reflected in hockey, Edwards’ presence on Team USA offers a powerful example of what is possible.

As February approaches, her family hopes to be in the arena, cheering, celebrating and witnessing a moment that belongs to all of them.

To learn more, please visit the official GoFundMe page.