Jessica Campbell Makes Historic Move to Seattle Kraken Coaching Staff
In a landmark appointment, Jessica Campbell has been named to the Seattle Kraken coaching staff, making her the first woman to serve as a full-time coach in the history of the NHL. Campbell's appointment represents a significant milestone in the sport, breaking barriers and setting new precedents for gender inclusion in professional ice hockey.
Campbell brings a wealth of experience to the Kraken, having previously served as an assistant coach with the Coachella Valley Firebirds, where she managed the team's power play. Her coaching acumen, particularly in special teams, has been widely recognized. During her tenure with the Firebirds, she coached Tye Kartye, who went on to win the 2023 AHL Dudley "Red" Garrett Award for most outstanding rookie. Kartye's impressive season stats included 20 points, with 11 goals and nine assists over 77 games for the Kraken, highlighting Campbell's influence on player development.
Reflecting on her appointment, Campbell shared, “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.”
A Trailblazer in Hockey
Jessica Campbell's career is marked by several pioneering achievements. In 2022, she became the first woman to coach in the American Hockey League (AHL) and then made history again as the first woman to coach a men's national team during the 2022 IIHF Men's World Championship with Team Germany. Her role with the Nurnberg Ice Tigers in 2021 further showcases her diverse coaching experiences and adaptability to different hockey environments.
Kraken coach Dan Bylsma, who worked closely with Campbell in Coachella Valley, emphasized the significance of her player development skills. “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 expertise extends beyond team coaching. She has also worked as a power-skating coach, training notable athletes such as Natalie Spooner and Joel Edmundson. Additionally, her work with Kraken goaltender Philipp Grubauer during the 2022 IIHF Men's World Championship further establishes her capability to contribute at the highest levels of the sport.
A Growth Mindset
An advocate of continuous improvement, Campbell approaches her role with a growth-oriented mindset. She stated, “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.” This philosophy underscores her commitment to excellence and adaptability, traits that are crucial for succeeding in the highly competitive world of professional hockey.
With her new role at the Kraken, Campbell is expected to head the team's power play, bringing her extensive experience and strategic insight to the NHL stage. Her journey has been marked by significant milestones, including serving as team captain in the first-ever CWHL All-Star Game during the 2014-15 season, where she demonstrated strong leadership and tactical knowledge.
Looking Forward
Jessica Campbell's appointment to the Seattle Kraken is not just a personal achievement but a progressive step for the NHL. Her presence on the coaching staff promises to bring fresh perspectives and innovative strategies to the team. As she continues to pave the way for future generations of female coaches, Campbell's influence is likely to extend well beyond her immediate duties.
As the Kraken gear up for the upcoming season, the excitement surrounding Campbell's role is palpable. Her proven track record in developing players and her commitment to fostering strong relationships within the team bode well for her future success with the Kraken. Both fans and players eagerly anticipate the positive impact she will undoubtedly have on the team and the broader hockey community.