In a historic move for the NHL, Jessica Campbell has joined the Seattle Kraken's coaching staff, becoming the first woman to serve as a full-time coach in the league's storied history. Campbell’s journey to this groundbreaking achievement is marked by a series of pioneering firsts, reflective of her resilience and skill in the world of hockey.
A Trailblazer in Coaching
Campbell has been shattering ceilings long before her current appointment. During the 2014-15 season, she served as team captain in the first-ever CWHL All-Star Game, showcasing her leadership qualities early in her career. Her coaching credentials were further bolstered in 2022 when she became the first woman to coach in the American Hockey League (AHL), joining the Coachella Valley Firebirds as an assistant coach.
At the Firebirds, Campbell’s proficiency was evident, particularly in her role managing the team's power play. Her expertise paid dividends, culminating in Tye Kartye winning the 2023 AHL Dudley "Red" Garrett Award for the most outstanding rookie. Kartye tallied 20 points (11 goals, nine assists) over 77 games for the Kraken, a testament to Campbell’s effective coaching methods and her ability to develop young talent.
Endorsement from Peers
Her impact has not gone unnoticed. Kraken coach Dan Bylsma, who witnessed Campbell's work firsthand in Coachella Valley, praised her dedication to player development. “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,” Bylsma commented.
Such endorsements underscore Campbell’s growing reputation in the hockey community. Her involvement in the development of notable prospects like Kartye, Wright, and Evans further solidifies her status as a promising coach capable of molding the next generation of NHL stars.
Expanding Her Influence
Campbell’s coaching resume extends beyond North American hockey. In 2022, she became the first woman to coach a men's national team during the IIHF Men's World Championship with Team Germany. This role saw her working alongside top-tier talent, including Kraken goaltender Philipp Grubauer, further broadening her coaching experience and influence.
In addition to her work at the national and league levels, Campbell has also served as a power-skating coach for elite athletes such as Natalie Spooner and Joel Edmundson. Her versatility and technical expertise make her a valuable asset to the Kraken, where she is expected to head the team’s power play strategies.
A Humble Approach
Despite her impressive accomplishments and the barriers she has broken, Campbell remains focused on her work. “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 stated.
Campbell emphasizes the importance of maintaining a growth mindset over setting rigid benchmarks. “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,” she reflected.
Her philosophy mirrors that of many top professionals who prioritize continuous improvement. “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,” Campbell said.
The Kraken's Future
With Jessica Campbell joining the Seattle Kraken coaching staff, the organization signals its commitment to innovation and excellence. Her addition comes at a time when the Kraken are building momentum, as evidenced by the recent signing of 2024 Stanley Cup champion Brandon Montour. The synergy between experienced players and forward-thinking coaches like Campbell could propel the team to new heights.
As Campbell steps into her new role, the hockey world will be watching with keen interest to see how her contributions shape the Kraken’s performance and the broader acceptance of women in coaching positions traditionally dominated by men. Her journey thus far promises a future where talent and hard work pave the way, regardless of gender.