Breaking Barriers: Jessica Campbell Joins Seattle Kraken's Coaching Staff
In a historic move, the Seattle Kraken have appointed Jessica Campbell to their coaching staff, marking the first time in NHL history that a woman has been hired as a full-time coach. Campbell's journey to this remarkable achievement is punctuated by numerous milestones and a relentless dedication to the sport.
Jessica Campbell’s appointment is a significant moment not just for the Kraken but for the entirety of professional hockey. Her career trajectory is a testament to her talent, perseverance, and groundbreaking spirit. Before joining the Kraken, Campbell served as an assistant coach with the Coachella Valley Firebirds, where she managed the team’s power play. Her work with the Firebirds didn’t go unnoticed, especially by Kraken coach Dan Bylsma. “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,” said Bylsma.
Campbell's impact on her players has been significant. Under her guidance, Tye Kartye flourished, winning the 2023 AHL Dudley "Red" Garrett Award for most outstanding rookie. Kartye, who scored 20 points (11 goals, nine assists) over 77 games for the Kraken, is just one example of Campbell’s effectiveness as a coach and mentor. But her influence extends far beyond individual accolades.
The Canadian trailblazer has broken numerous barriers throughout her career. In the 2014-15 season, Campbell served as team captain in the first-ever CWHL All-Star Game. Fast forward to 2022, and she became the first woman to coach in the American Hockey League (AHL). That same year, Campbell shattered another glass ceiling by becoming the first woman to coach a men's national team during the 2022 IIHF Men's World Championship with Team Germany.
Her coaching prowess is not limited to team settings. Campbell has also worked as a power-skating coach, helping athletes like Natalie Spooner and Joel Edmundson refine their skills. Additionally, she contributed her talents to the Nurnberg Ice Tigers in 2021 and worked with Kraken goaltender Philipp Grubauer during the 2022 IIHF Men's World Championship. These diverse experiences underscore her multifaceted abilities as a coach and her commitment to elevating the game at every level.
When asked about her latest achievement, Campbell expressed a humble yet determined attitude. “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 said. This humility, coupled with an unwavering dedication to her craft, speaks volumes about her approach to coaching. “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 added.
Campbell’s future with the Kraken is promising. She is expected to head the team’s power play, a testament to her tactical acumen and the trust the organization has placed in her. Her work ethic and focus on growth are likely to be valuable assets to the team. “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 emphasized.
As the Seattle Kraken continue to build their organization, they have made a clear statement by hiring Jessica Campbell: they value innovation, diversity, and excellence. Her appointment is not just a win for the Kraken but a monumental step forward for women in hockey and sports at large. With Campbell on their coaching staff and newly signed 2024 Stanley Cup champion Brandon Montour joining the ranks, the Kraken are poised for a compelling season ahead.