Jessica Campbell Breaks New Ground as NHL's First Full-Time Female Coach with Seattle Kraken
In a landmark move for the National Hockey League (NHL), Jessica Campbell has been appointed to the Seattle Kraken coaching staff, making her the first woman to serve as a full-time coach in the league's history. Campbell's journey to this role is decorated with groundbreaking achievements, reflecting her dedication and skill in the male-dominated world of professional hockey.
Before making NHL history, Campbell made significant waves as an assistant coach with the Coachella Valley Firebirds. Her coaching prowess was evident not just in team results but also in individual player development. During her tenure at Coachella Valley, she managed the Firebirds' power play, showcasing her strategic acumen. Under her guidance, Tye Kartye emerged as a standout player, winning the 2023 AHL Dudley "Red" Garrett Award for the most outstanding rookie.
Reflecting on her time with the Firebirds, Kraken coach Dan Bylsma noted, “During our tenure in Coachella Valley, I saw firsthand Jessica's commitment to player development. Her ability to establish relationships with her players, specifically Tye Kartye, Shane Wright, and Ryker Evans, was an important factor in this hire. I'm looking forward to continuing to work with her at the NHL level.”
Campbell's coaching career is a series of impressive firsts. In 2022, she became the first woman to coach in the American Hockey League (AHL). Additionally, she broke barriers on the international stage as the first woman to coach a men's national team during the 2022 IIHF Men's World Championship by working with Team Germany. Throughout her career, she has also served in various coaching roles, including with the Nurnberg Ice Tigers in 2021 and offering her expertise as a power-skating coach to athletes like Natalie Spooner and Joel Edmundson.
Describing her journey and her new role with the Kraken, Campbell expressed a mix of humility and dedication. “I just focused on the task at hand in coaching, but absolutely, it's obviously a tremendous opportunity and I'm honored to be where I am and to be -- it's a humbling feeling to be a part of the Kraken organization,” she shared. Her commitment to her work is evident in her approach: “For me, that's what it's about. Just putting my head down and doing the work. You know, where it takes me it takes me, but I'm obviously honored to be on this path and continue to just do the good work that it takes to hopefully reach that goal.”
Campbell's appointment comes as the Seattle Kraken franchise continues to make strategic moves to bolster their team. In an effort to enhance their performance, the Kraken have also signed 2024 Stanley Cup champion Brandon Montour. With Campbell likely heading the Kraken's power play, the team is poised for an exciting season ahead.
Her influence on players has already been significant, with many attributing their development to her guidance. Tye Kartye, for instance, scored 20 points (11 goals, nine assists) over 77 games for the Kraken, a testament to Campbell's effective coaching style. Notably, her work with Kraken goaltender Philipp Grubauer during the 2022 IIHF Men's World Championship underscores her ability to develop talent across various positions.
Campbell maintains a growth-oriented mindset, an attitude that has undoubtedly contributed to her success and will continue to inspire her journey forward. “I'm a big believer in just keeping a growth mindset every day. Obviously, my goal is to continue to coach at the highest level, but timelines aren't necessary for me and definitely not where my focus is.”
As Jessica Campbell steps into her role with the Seattle Kraken, she not only marks a historic milestone for the NHL but also sets a powerful example for aspiring female coaches in sports. Her appointment is more than a personal achievement; it is a significant leap for inclusivity and diversity in professional hockey, signaling a future where skills and commitment pave the way for breaking barriers.