Jessica Campbell Breaks Barriers as Seattle Kraken’s Newest Coaching Addition
The Seattle Kraken have taken a historic step by appointing Jessica Campbell to their coaching staff, marking a significant milestone in the NHL. Campbell brings with her an impressive résumé, becoming the first woman to serve as a full-time coach in the league’s history.
Having previously served as an assistant coach for the Coachella Valley Firebirds, Campbell's coaching acumen is well recognized. During her tenure with the Firebirds, she managed their power play and was instrumental in the development of players like Tye Kartye. Her efforts paid off when Kartye won the 2023 AHL Dudley "Red" Garrett Award for most outstanding rookie.
"During our tenure in Coachella Valley, I saw firsthand Jessica's commitment to player development," said Kraken coach Dan Bylsma. "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."
Throughout her career, Campbell has continually shattered glass ceilings. In 2022, she became the first woman to coach in the American Hockey League (AHL). Campbell also made history as the first woman to coach a men's national team during the 2022 IIHF Men's World Championship with Team Germany. Her expertise was further sought after by the Nurnberg Ice Tigers in 2021, and she has worked as a power-skating coach for a range of athletes, including NHL players like Natalie Spooner and Joel Edmundson.
"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 remarked. Her humility and relentless dedication to her craft are evident in her achievements and the respect she commands within the sport.
Building a Legacy
Campbell’s role within the Kraken’s organization is expected to be pivotal. Given her success in developing the Firebirds' power play, she will likely take on similar responsibilities with the Kraken. Her ability to turn player potential into performance fits seamlessly with the team's development goals.
Kraken coach Dan Bylsma acknowledged Campbell's contributions to the growth of young talents like Tye Kartye, Shane Wright, and Ryker Evans. Her impact is not solely based on tactical knowledge but also on her ability to mentor players and foster strong relationships.
“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 shared. Her statement underscores a pragmatic approach to her career, focused on continuous improvement and dedication rather than accolades.
Complementary Talent
The Seattle Kraken's coaching staff now boasts a diverse set of skills and experiences, further supplemented by their recent signing of 2024 Stanley Cup champion Brandon Montour. This blend of new talent and seasoned veterans sets the stage for an exciting chapter in the team's journey.
Campbell's appointment is more than just a historical footnote; it represents the NHL’s growing commitment to inclusivity and the acknowledgment of talent regardless of gender. Her journey from captaining the first-ever CWHL All-Star Game in the 2014-15 season to coaching world-class athletes like Philipp Grubauer during the 2022 IIHF Men's World Championship exemplifies her evolving influence in hockey.
"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, reflecting her forward-thinking perspective.
As Campbell embarks on this new chapter with the Seattle Kraken, her story is likely to inspire a new generation of hockey players and coaches while setting a benchmark for what relentless dedication and skill can achieve at the highest levels of sport.