Jessica Campbell Breaks Barriers as Seattle Kraken’s Newest Coaching Addition
In a historic move for the NHL, Jessica Campbell has joined the Seattle Kraken’s coaching staff, making her the first woman to serve as a full-time coach in the league's history. Campbell's appointment marks a significant milestone not only for the Kraken but also for the sport as a whole, reflecting a growing recognition of the impact and expertise women bring to professional hockey.
Jessica Campbell's journey to this groundbreaking role has been marked by numerous firsts and a profound dedication to the sport. Before joining the Kraken, Campbell made history in 2022 as the first woman to coach in the American Hockey League (AHL) with the Coachella Valley Firebirds. Her tenure with the Firebirds saw her managing the power play and significantly contributing to player development, particularly noted in her work with standout rookie Tye Kartye. Kartye's performance flourished under Campbell’s guidance, culminating in his receipt of the 2023 AHL Dudley "Red" Garrett Award for the most outstanding rookie.
Campbell’s impact extends beyond her AHL achievements. During the 2014-15 season, she served as team captain in the first-ever CWHL All-Star Game, showcasing her leadership abilities early in her career. In another pioneering role, Campbell was the first woman to coach a men's national team during the 2022 IIHF Men's World Championship, where she worked with Team Germany and specifically with Kraken goaltender Philipp Grubauer.
Kraken coach Dan Bylsma highlighted Campbell's exceptional ability to connect with and develop players as a vital factor in her hire. “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. This endorsement speaks volumes about Campbell's proficiency and the high level of respect she has garnered within professional circles.
For Campbell, the journey is rooted in a steadfast focus on the task at hand and an unwavering dedication to her role. “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 expressed. Her comments reflect a humble yet determined mindset that has undoubtedly been a cornerstone of her success.
Campbell’s philosophy in coaching is rooted in maintaining a growth mindset and an emphasis on continual improvement. “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 noted. This approach has clearly paid dividends, as she has consistently broken barriers and set new standards in the hockey world.
As she steps into her new role with the Seattle Kraken, expectations are high that Campbell will bring her expertise in power play management to the team, an area where she has excelled in previous coaching positions. The Kraken's addition of Campbell to their coaching staff not only represents a progressive step forward for the organization but also signals an encouraging shift toward greater inclusivity and diversity within the NHL.
The appointment comes as the Kraken continue to build a competitive team, recently signing 2024 Stanley Cup champion Brandon Montour. With Campbell's proven track record and her ability to develop young talent, the Kraken are poised to benefit from her extensive knowledge and innovative coaching techniques. Campbell's role will likely prove instrumental in shaping the next generation of NHL stars, much as she has done with players like Tye Kartye, Shane Wright, and Ryker Evans.
In sum, Jessica Campbell’s elevation to the Seattle Kraken’s coaching staff is a testament to her extraordinary skill, relentless work ethic, and the valuable perspective she brings to professional hockey. Her journey is a compelling narrative of breaking new ground, shattering glass ceilings, and leading by example, offering inspiration to aspiring coaches and players alike.