Laila Edwards, a trailblazer in women’s ice hockey, is set to receive a well-deserved tribute as Cleveland Heights plans to raise a banner in her honor at the Community Center ice rink. Edwards made history in 2023 as the first Black woman to compete for the United States women’s national team, culminating in her pivotal role in the team’s gold medal victory at the Winter Olympics.
According to Christopher Kendel, assistant commissioner of parks and recreation for Cleveland Heights, the city is excited to celebrate Edwards’ achievements. “We want to get some replicas of her Team USA jersey and her jersey at Wisconsin,” Kendel stated. Edwards, a native of Cleveland Heights, has an impressive record, including two NCAA national championships and a IIHF World Championship title.
Growing up in this community, Edwards honed her skills at the Cleveland Heights Community Center, often playing against boys. At age 13, she moved to Rochester, New York, to attend Bishop Kearney High School and pursue her passion for hockey. She later signed with Wisconsin, where she contributed significantly to the team’s success, helping them win two national championships.
As the 2026 Milan Cortina Olympics approach, Edwards’ profile has risen dramatically. During the Olympics, she was instrumental in the United States’ comeback against Canada, scoring the game-winning goal in overtime to secure the gold medal. Despite her remarkable achievements, the Cleveland Heights ice rink lacked visible recognition of her accomplishments until recently.
This oversight was highlighted by former NFL players Jason Kelce and Travis Kelce during an episode of their podcast, “New Heights.” While wearing Team USA jerseys, they jokingly pointed out that while Travis had banners from his youth hockey teams, Edwards had none. “Best athlete out of Cleveland Heights,” Jason said, underscoring the need for recognition of Edwards’ historic contributions to the sport.
In response to the growing interest in honoring Edwards, Kendel mentioned that the Cleveland Heights Community Center hosted viewing parties to celebrate her performances during the Olympics. The community rallied together to support Edwards, watching her games and cheering for Team USA. “We couldn’t be prouder,” Kendel reflected on the community’s support.
Plans to design and install a banner are underway, with discussions about additional honors still in progress. “When the time is right, the city of Cleveland Heights wants to roll out the red carpet for Laila and her family,” Kendel added. While details of the tribute remain to be finalized, the city is committed to ensuring Edwards’ legacy is recognized.
Edwards remains connected to her roots, frequently visiting the community center where she spent much of her childhood. She has even purchased a monthly gym membership to maintain her connection with the facility. When asked if she might receive a complimentary lifetime membership, Kendel joked, “We should probably make it a golden membership pass. The only requirement is you have to be a gold medal winner.”
As Cleveland Heights prepares to celebrate Laila Edwards, her journey from local youth hockey to Olympic champion serves as an inspiration to many in her hometown and beyond.
