Breaking Barriers: Jessica Campbell Joins Seattle Kraken Coaching Staff
Jessica Campbell is breaking new ground in the National Hockey League (NHL) as she joins the Seattle Kraken coaching staff, becoming the first woman to serve as a full-time coach in the league's storied history. This appointment represents not only a significant personal achievement for Campbell but also a monumental step forward in integrating more diverse talent into the world of professional hockey.
From Coachella Valley to the NHL
Before this historic appointment, Campbell made her mark as an assistant coach with the Coachella Valley Firebirds, where she managed the team's power play and played a pivotal role in developing young talent. Tye Kartye, under Campbell’s tutelage, went on to win the 2023 AHL Dudley "Red" Garrett Award for most outstanding rookie, a testament to her coaching prowess.
Kraken coach Dan Bylsma had high praise for Campbell's work during her tenure at Coachella Valley, emphasizing 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 said.
A Trailblazing Career
Campbell’s journey to the NHL has been marked by several historical achievements. In 2014-15, she served as team captain in the first-ever CWHL All-Star Game. Fast forward to 2022, she became the first woman to coach in the American Hockey League (AHL), and shortly after, she made headlines again as the first woman to coach a men's national team during the 2022 IIHF Men's World Championship with Team Germany.
Beyond her roles with various teams, Campbell has also been a sought-after power-skating coach, working with athletes such as Natalie Spooner and Joel Edmundson. She even had a stint with the Nurnberg Ice Tigers in 2021. Her experience and skill set are widely recognized, and they will undoubtedly be a valuable asset to the Kraken.
Heading the Kraken’s Power Play
As Campbell transitions to her new role, it is expected that she will take charge of the Kraken's power play, an area that could benefit from her strategic insights and extensive experience. “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 commented.
Her methodology of concentrating on daily improvement resonates with her past successes and the respect she has garnered from players and colleagues alike. Campbell’s focus on the task at hand has been a cornerstone of her journey. “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 added.
Looking Ahead
Adding to the excitement surrounding the Kraken, they have also signed 2024 Stanley Cup champion Brandon Montour, bolstering the team’s options for the upcoming season. With Campbell's coaching expertise and Montour’s on-ice prowess, the Kraken are gearing up for a promising season ahead.
Campbell's appointment as a full-time NHL coach not only shatters glass ceilings but also enhances the credibility and effectiveness of the Kraken's coaching staff. Her ability to foster player development and manage key aspects of the game will likely lead to significant improvements in the team’s performance.
Jessica Campbell's groundbreaking journey and steadfast dedication to her craft serve as an inspiration, signaling a future where coaching in professional sports is increasingly inclusive. As Campbell herself aptly put it, “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.”