Jessica Campbell Makes Historic NHL Coaching Debut with Seattle Kraken
In a groundbreaking move for professional hockey, Jessica Campbell has joined the Seattle Kraken's coaching staff, making her the first woman to hold a full-time coaching position in the NHL. This appointment marks a significant milestone in the sport's history and underscores Campbell's remarkable journey and dedication to player development.
Campbell's path to the NHL has been characterized by a series of firsts. In 2022, she became the first woman to coach in the American Hockey League (AHL) when she took on an assistant coaching role with the Coachella Valley Firebirds. Her tenure there was marked by notable achievements, including managing the team’s power play and coaching standout rookie Tye Kartye, who was awarded the 2023 AHL Dudley "Red" Garrett Award for most outstanding rookie. Kartye, under Campbell's guidance, scored 20 points with the Firebirds and has since made an impact with the Kraken.
Reflecting on her time with the Firebirds and her work with players such as Kartye, Shane Wright, and Ryker Evans, 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."
Campbell's influence extends beyond the AHL. During the 2022 IIHF Men's World Championship, she became the first woman to coach a men's national team, working with Team Germany. This role also provided her the opportunity to collaborate with Kraken goaltender Philipp Grubauer, further cementing her reputation as a skilled and adaptable coach.
Campbell's dedication to player development is well-documented. She has worked as a power-skating coach for top-tier athletes, including Canadian Olympian Natalie Spooner and NHL defenseman Joel Edmundson. Her emphasis on a growth mindset and her commitment to fostering player skills have been central to her coaching philosophy. "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 noted.
In addition to her individual successes, Campbell's leadership was pivotal during her time as team captain in the first-ever CWHL All-Star Game in the 2014-15 season. This leadership experience has translated well into her coaching roles, where she has consistently demonstrated an ability to build strong relationships with her players and help them achieve their potential.
Kraken coach Dan Bylsma has been one of Campbell's vocal supporters. "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 stated.
Looking ahead, Campbell is expected to head the Kraken's power play, leveraging her extensive experience and tactical acumen. Her role with the team will be crucial as the Kraken aim to refine their strategies and enhance their performance in upcoming seasons.
In addition to Campbell's appointment, the Kraken have bolstered their roster by signing 2024 Stanley Cup champion Brandon Montour. This acquisition, combined with the historic hiring of Campbell, signals the Kraken's commitment to building a robust, forward-thinking organization.
Campbell remains focused and undeterred by the historic nature of her appointment. "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," she stated, emphasizing her long-term dedication to the sport.
Jessica Campbell's appointment as a full-time coach in the NHL with the Seattle Kraken is a landmark in hockey history. Her journey from player to coach is a testament to her skill, perseverance, and unwavering dedication to the game, inspiring future generations to pursue their aspirations without limits.