Laila Edwards has reached the pinnacle of hockey — Olympic gold, two NCAA national titles, and a world championship to her name. Now, the hometown rink where she first laced up her skates is preparing to give her a long-overdue honor.
The City of Cleveland Heights announced it will raise a banner inside the Cleveland Heights Community Center ice rink to celebrate Edwards’ achievements, including her historic role as the first Black woman to play for the U.S. women’s national hockey team and her recent gold medal win at the 2026 Milan Cortina Olympics.
For years, Edwards’ biggest accomplishments happened far from northeast Ohio. She left home at 13 to attend Bishop Kearney High School in Rochester, New York, to pursue elite hockey opportunities. She later starred at the University of Wisconsin, helping the Badgers capture two national championships as a standout 6-foot-1 forward.
But her journey began at the Cleveland Heights Community Center, where she played against boys and developed the skills that would carry her to the global stage.
City officials say it’s time the rink reflects that legacy.
“We couldn’t be prouder,” said Christopher Kendel, assistant commissioner of parks and recreation. In addition to a banner, the city is discussing other ways to recognize Edwards, including displaying replicas of her Team USA and Wisconsin jerseys. Conversations are ongoing with her family to determine how best to celebrate her accomplishments.
Feb 19, 2026; Milan, Italy; Laila Edwards (10) of the United States and Megan Keller (5) of the United States celebrate after winning the gold medal in women’s ice hockey after defeating Canada during the Milano Cortina 2026 Olympic Winter Games at Milano Santagiulia Ice Hockey Arena. Mandatory Credit: Amber Searls-Imagn Images
Edwards’ Olympic moment cemented her place in U.S. hockey history. In the gold medal game against Canada, she played a key role in the comeback victory, assisting on a crucial late-game goal that helped push the contest into overtime before Team USA clinched the win.
Back home, the community rallied around her during the Games. The recreation center hosted viewing parties for both the opening matchup against Finland and the gold medal showdown, packing the rink with proud residents cheering on their hometown star.
Her rising profile even caught the attention of Cleveland Heights natives Jason and Travis Kelce. On their “New Heights” podcast, the brothers joked about banners hanging in the same rink from Travis’ youth hockey days — sparking playful banter about Edwards’ achievements. Now, she’ll have a banner of her own.
Despite her international success, Edwards remains closely connected to her roots. She frequently returns home during school breaks and even maintains a gym membership at the community center to train.
Feb 19, 2026; Milan, Italy; Laila Edwards (10) of the United States reacts after assisting on a goal against Canada in the women’s ice hockey gold medal game during the Milano Cortina 2026 Olympic Winter Games at Milano Santagiulia Ice Hockey Arena. Mandatory Credit: Amber Searls-Imagn Images
City leaders say a larger celebration may be in the works, possibly including a formal ceremony to honor her and her family. As for perks? Kendel joked that maybe she deserves a “golden membership pass” — though he noted the only requirement might be bringing home Olympic gold.
For Cleveland Heights, raising Edwards’ banner isn’t just about recognizing a champion. It’s about inspiring the next generation of athletes who step onto that same ice, dreaming big.
