Career Timeline of Laila Edwards: Major Achievements and Milestones

How Laila Edwards built a successful career. Explore key moments that defined the journey.

Laila Edwards is an accomplished American college ice hockey player for the University of Wisconsin and a key member of the United States women's national ice hockey team. She earned a gold medal at the 2025 World Championship and a silver medal at the 2024 World Championship, where she was named Tournament MVP, becoming the youngest player ever to receive the honor. Edwards achieved a significant milestone in 2023 as the first Black woman to play for the U.S. women's senior national team. She's the first Black woman to score a goal for Team USA at the 2024 World Championships, and at the 2026 Winter Olympics, Edwards received a gold medal, another first for a Black woman on a USA hockey team.

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Full Timeline Career & Achievements Success & Recognition

November 2023: Named to US Women's National Ice Hockey Team

In November 2023, Laila Edwards was named to the United States women's national ice hockey team for the November Rivalry Series against Canada, becoming the first Black woman to play for the team.

March 31, 2024: Named to US Roster for IIHF Women's World Championship

On March 31, 2024, Laila Edwards was named to the United States roster for the 2024 IIHF Women's World Championship, becoming the first Black woman to play for the United States at the IIHF World Women's Championship.

April 5, 2024: First Goal for Team USA at IIHF World Women's Championship

On April 5, 2024, during a preliminary round game against Czechia, Laila Edwards became the first Black woman to score a goal for Team USA at the IIHF World Women's Championship.

September 18, 2024: Named Alternate Captain

On September 18, 2024, Laila Edwards was named an alternate captain for the 2024–25 season.

March 5, 2025: Named to US Roster for IIHF Women's World Championship

On March 5, 2025, Laila Edwards was named to the United States roster for the 2025 IIHF Women's World Championship. At this time, she switched to defense.

January 2, 2026: Named to Team USA's Roster for 2026 Winter Olympics

On January 2, 2026, Laila Edwards was named to Team USA's roster to compete at the 2026 Winter Olympics, becoming the first Black woman to play hockey for team USA at the Olympics.