In a groundbreaking move, Jessica Campbell has shattered a significant barrier in professional ice hockey by becoming the first woman to serve as a full-time coach in the NHL. Recently appointed to the Seattle Kraken coaching staff, Campbell's journey to this historic milestone has been marked by notable achievements and a steadfast commitment to player development.
A Trailblazing Path
Jessica Campbell's coaching career has been defined by a series of pioneering firsts. In 2022, she became the first woman to coach in the American Hockey League (AHL), serving as an assistant coach with the Coachella Valley Firebirds. Her impact was immediate; she successfully managed the Firebirds' power play and played a pivotal role in the development of standout players like Tye Kartye. Kartye's performance under her guidance earned him the 2023 AHL Dudley "Red" Garrett Award for the most outstanding rookie, after scoring 20 points (11 goals, nine assists) in 77 games for the Kraken.
Breaking New Ground
Campbell's coaching credentials extend beyond the AHL. During the 2022 IIHF Men's World Championship, she broke new ground by becoming the first woman to coach a men's national team, working with Team Germany. Her responsibilities included working closely with key players like Kraken goaltender Philipp Grubauer, showcasing her versatility and competence in diverse coaching environments.
Her coaching journey began even earlier, as she served in various roles, including working as a power-skating coach for esteemed athletes such as Natalie Spooner and Joel Edmundson. Additionally, in 2014-15, Campbell made her mark as the team captain in the first-ever CWHL All-Star Game, further solidifying her leadership credentials.
Seattle Kraken's New Era
Joining the Seattle Kraken represents a significant step forward for both Campbell and the organization. Kraken coach Dan Bylsma underscored her essential role in player development, stating, "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."
Campbell's approach to coaching is deeply rooted in a growth mindset. Reflecting on her journey, she remarked, “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.”
Future Aspirations
While Campbell's current focus is on contributing to the Kraken's success, she is not fixated on timelines or specific milestones in her career. She stated, "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."
Jessica Campbell's journey is a testament to her expertise, resilience, and unwavering dedication to the sport. As she steps into her new role with the Seattle Kraken, she continues to pave the way for future generations of women in hockey, breaking barriers and setting new standards for excellence in coaching. Her appointment not only enriches the Kraken's coaching staff but also marks a progressive shift in the NHL, heralding a more inclusive and diverse future for the sport.