Travis And Jason Kelce Score Big For Team Usa Hockey Star

Olympic Dreams and Hometown Heroes

The Winter Olympics are bringing the chill, but Team USA’s women’s hockey is on fire! Fresh from a victory against the Czech Republic, standout player Laila Edwards marks another page in history as the first Black woman to skate for the U.S. national hockey team. The SoCal sun might be shining, but all eyes are on the frosty peaks of Italy. Laila’s triumph on the ice is not just personal—it's collective.

The Kelce Brothers' Generosity

Travis Kelce, the NFL superstar, put a Hollywood spotlight on Laila during an episode of his "New Heights" podcast back in 2023. Fast forward, and the heartwarming news is out: Travis and his brother Jason Kelce chipped in $10,000 to ensure Laila’s family could cheer her on from the stands in Italy. Laila, hailing from the Kelces’ own Cleveland Heights, expressed her gratitude, emphasizing how their support means the world to her.

“He’s rooting for me," Laila shared. "They didn’t have to do that, but they did. And I’m really grateful.”

A Family Triumph

Laila’s Olympic debut on February 5 was a moment to remember, with 14 family members—including her 91-year-old grandmother—rallying in support. The Kelce brothers’ donation was more than financial; it was a nod to the sacrifices and dreams of Laila's family, making their presence in Italy possible.

According to Laila's mother, Charone Gray-Edwards, the overwhelming sense of appreciation is hard to put into words. Thanks to a successful GoFundMe campaign, the Edwards family has raised over $60,000, promising any surplus to benefit the Cleveland Heights community, whether through new hockey equipment or free rink time.

More Than Just a Game

Contributions weren’t limited to just the Kelces. Fans and friends from Wisconsin Badgers, where Laila is wrapping up her senior year, also supported her Olympic journey. Organizations like Ice Hockey in Harlem pitched in, recognizing Laila’s role as a beacon for young Black and brown girls with big dreams on ice.

JJ Velez from Ice Hockey in Harlem captured the sentiment perfectly: “We don't have much, but what we do have, we're willing to provide because she's not only representing Cleveland Heights, she's not only representing her family," he said, "She's representing every Black and brown young lady who's ever put on some skates and a helmet to defy the odds.”

Giving Back to the Community

Travis Kelce is no stranger to paying it forward. His 2015 charity, Eighty-Seven and Running, champions disadvantaged youth by broadening horizons in STEM, entrepreneurship, and the arts. So, when the Kelces supported Laila's Olympic dream, it was less of a surprise and more of a continuation of their dedication to uplifting others.

As the Olympic Games continue, Laila Edwards stands as a testament to community spirit, family resilience, and the powerful support of those who've got your back—even from the other side of the globe.