Cleveland Heights Alum Earns First Team All-American Honors in NCAA Women's Hockey

Laila Edwards recognized as one of the top players in Division I after standout season at Wisconsin

Mar. 23, 2026 at 5:34am

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Cleveland Heights native Laila Edwards has been named a First Team All-American forward in NCAA Division I women's hockey, highlighting local talent on the national stage. Edwards, who captains the Wisconsin Badgers, was honored alongside the 2026 Patty Kazmaier Memorial Award winner, Caroline Harvey, as the top players in the country.

Why it matters

Edwards' achievement showcases the high level of hockey talent coming out of the Cleveland Heights community and demonstrates that local athletes can compete and excel at the highest levels of collegiate sports. Her recognition as a First Team All-American is a point of pride for the Cleveland Heights area.

The details

Laila Edwards, a forward for the University of Wisconsin women's hockey team, was named a 2026 First Team All-American by the American Hockey Coaches Association. Edwards, a Cleveland Heights native, led the Badgers in scoring this past season and played a key role in the team's run to the Frozen Four national championship game.

  • Laila Edwards was named a 2026 First Team All-American on March 22, 2026.
  • The University of Wisconsin Badgers will face off against Ohio State in the Frozen Four national championship game on March 25, 2026.

The players

Laila Edwards

A forward for the University of Wisconsin women's hockey team and a native of Cleveland Heights, Ohio.

Caroline Harvey

The 2026 winner of the Patty Kazmaier Memorial Award, given to the top player in NCAA Division I women's hockey.

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What they’re saying

“Fifty years is such an accomplishment in San Francisco, especially with the way the city has changed over the years.”

— Gordon Edgar, grocery employee

What’s next

The University of Wisconsin Badgers will face off against Ohio State in the Frozen Four national championship game on March 25, 2026.

The takeaway

Laila Edwards' recognition as a First Team All-American showcases the high level of hockey talent coming out of the Cleveland Heights community and demonstrates that local athletes can compete and excel at the highest levels of collegiate sports.