Former NHL star Brooks Laich and his fiancée, champion CrossFit athlete Katrín Tanja Davíðsdóttir, have joyfully announced the birth of their first child, daughter Emberly Heba Laich, who arrived on October 6. The couple shared their heartwarming news on Instagram, expressing immense love and excitement for their new journey as parents.
The world of sports and entertainment is abuzz with heartwarming news as former NHL player Brooks Laich and his fiancée, decorated CrossFit athlete Katrín Tanja Davíðsdóttir, officially step into parenthood. The engaged couple welcomed their daughter, Emberly Heba Laich, on October 6, announcing her arrival to the world on Wednesday, October 15. This new chapter marks a significant milestone in their relationship, which began attracting public attention in 2021.
The couple shared their profound joy through a touching Instagram post, featuring a carousel of intimate photos captured moments after Emberly’s birth. Their caption radiated love: “Our hearts are overflowing with love as we welcome our daughter into this world. Becoming her parents has been the greatest gift we ever could have imagined – our precious, peaceful, powerful little girl who was born under the full supermoon!” They added, “Our world is forever brighter with you in it, our Emberly ❤️.”
Their Journey to Parenthood and Engagement
The announcement of Emberly Heba Laich’s birth culminates a journey that began publicly in August 2021 when Brooks Laich and Katrín Tanja Davíðsdóttir made their relationship Instagram official. Laich, a devoted fan, praised Davíðsdóttir’s athleticism after watching her compete at the 2021 Nobull CrossFit Games. Their connection deepened, leading to their engagement in 2024.
The couple first shared the exciting news of their pregnancy with fans on May 4, capturing hearts with a series of photos showcasing sonogram pictures and Katrín’s growing baby bump. Their joint Instagram post read, “Our greatest blessing 🤍🫶🏼✨ Baby Laich coming this fall. Mom & Dad can’t wait to meet you, our little one!!!!!!”
Julianne Hough’s Endorsement and Enduring Friendship
Adding another layer of warmth to the news, Brooks Laich’s ex-wife, dancer and TV personality Julianne Hough, extended her heartfelt congratulations. Hough, who was married to Laich from 2017 to 2020, commented on their pregnancy announcement, “Congratulations you two on expanding your family – this baby is already so loved ✨.” This gesture underscores the amicable relationship Laich maintains with the Hough family, a bond that has continued well beyond their divorce, which was finalized in 2022.
Laich’s connection to the Hough family was notably evident when he served as one of six groomsmen at Derek Hough’s 2023 wedding to Haley Erbert. Julianne herself reflected on seeing her ex and Davíðsdóttir at a wedding in September 2024, sharing her perspective on “The Jamie Kern Lima Show” podcast. Her comments highlighted a journey of growth and understanding, evolving from past challenges to designing a life “with so much wisdom, with so much insight, with so much compassion and so much empathy,” as reported by People.
Brooks Laich: Beyond the Ice Rink
Before his transition into family life, Brooks Laich built a formidable career in professional ice hockey. Born on June 23, 1983, in Wawota, Saskatchewan, Canada, Laich was drafted by the Ottawa Senators in 2001. He went on to play over 750 NHL games, showcasing his talent as a center and left wing for teams including the Washington Capitals, Toronto Maple Leafs, and Los Angeles Kings. Known for his tenacious play and leadership, Laich even served as an alternate captain for the Capitals.
His impressive hockey career includes several achievements: capturing a silver medal at the 2003 World Junior Championships with Team Canada, being named to the WHL (West) First All-Star Team, and winning the AHL Calder Cup in 2005-2006. While his on-ice achievements are notable, his current focus has clearly shifted to the joys of fatherhood, as highlighted by Us Weekly.
Katrín Tanja Davíðsdóttir: A Champion’s New Role
Katrín Tanja Davíðsdóttir is a renowned Icelandic CrossFit athlete, celebrated for her incredible strength, endurance, and competitive spirit. As a two-time winner of the CrossFit Games, she embodies peak physical performance and mental toughness. Her dedication to her sport has earned her a global following, inspiring countless individuals.
Now, Davíðsdóttir embraces a new, equally challenging, and rewarding role: motherhood. While the demands of being a top-tier athlete are immense, the arrival of Emberly Heba Laich ushers in a new era for Katrín, where her champion mindset will undoubtedly translate into nurturing and raising her daughter. Her journey continues to demonstrate that strength comes in many forms, both in the arena and in life’s most precious moments.
The Future for the Laich-Davíðsdóttir Family
With Emberly Heba Laich’s arrival, Brooks Laich and Katrín Tanja Davíðsdóttir embark on a profound new chapter filled with love, learning, and shared experiences. As both individuals have excelled in highly demanding fields, their resilience and dedication will undoubtedly serve them well as they navigate the joys and challenges of parenthood. Fans eagerly anticipate glimpses into their growing family life, celebrating this beautiful new beginning for the athletic power couple.
