Earlier this year, Laila Edwards made history.
After previously becoming the first Black woman named to the United States' senior women's national team, the University of Wisconsin forward/defender would be named to the American entry for the women's Olympic hockey tournament. As a result, she became the first Black female hockey player to be named to an American Winter Olympics roster.
Even with the historic achievement, Laila Edwards' family still had to organize a GoFundMe page to finance the expenses associated with attending the Winter Olympics.
While the page would ultimately accrue around $56,000 as of the end of last week, $10,000 would come from former Philadelphia Eagles center Jason Kelce and Kansas City Chiefs tight end Travis Kelce. The two brothers, who host their New Heights podcast, previously gave a shout out to Laila Edwards after she was named to the United States' senior women's national team. Both Edwards and the Kelce brothers are natives of Cleveland Heights.
Because of the donations, which came as small as just $5 dollars and reaching into the thousands at their largest, ten of Laila Edwards' relatives are set to make the trip to Italy ahead of the beginning of the women's hockey tournament on February 5th.
Some notable quotes
Speaking to People Magazine, Edwards praised the Kelce brothers for their actions.
"So I mean, those are really good guys. They're really good people, too, outside of their athletic abilities. "Laila Edwards (via People Magazine)
When she was at LAX (Los Angeles International Airport), the same sentiment was reiterated.
"They didn't have to do that. Travis did a kind donation that's gonna help my family get over there. A lot more of my family can come now. "Laila Edwards (via TMZ Sports)
On whether the Kelces would attend.
"I know Jason and Kylie will be there for sure. Travis is working on it. "Laila Edwards (via TMZ Sports)
Laila Edwards' mother, Charone Grey Edwards, on the donation made by the Kelce brothers.
"OMG, thank you, so much for taking time out of your busy day to notice us little people and support us. Like, that was huge because the Kelces don’t know us. The only connection is Cleveland Heights. I really appreciate it."Charone Grey Edwards
The United States' women's Olympic team will begin their Olympic campaign against Czechia on February 5th.