Breaking Barriers: Jessica Campbell Joins Seattle Kraken Coaching Staff
The Seattle Kraken have made a groundbreaking addition to their coaching staff, appointing Jessica Campbell, the first woman to serve as a full-time coach in the NHL's storied history. This historic appointment marks a significant milestone not just for Campbell, but for the entire league.
Campbell has already made a name for herself in hockey circles. She was a pivotal figure with the Coachella Valley Firebirds, serving as an assistant coach and managing the team’s power play. Her influence was evidently felt as one of her proteges, Tye Kartye, captured the 2023 AHL Dudley “Red” Garrett Award for the most outstanding rookie.
“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 Kraken coach Dan Bylsma.
The Journey to the NHL
Campbell’s coaching journey is lined with noteworthy accomplishments. In 2022, she became the first woman to coach in the American Hockey League (AHL). Before that, she served as the team captain in the inaugural CWHL All-Star Game during the 2014-15 season. Her coaching resume extends to international arenas as well, highlighted by her pioneering role as the first woman to coach a men's national team during the 2022 IIHF Men's World Championship with Team Germany.
Adding to her diverse experience, Campbell has worked as a power-skating coach for elite athletes such as Natalie Spooner and Joel Edmundson. In 2021, she served in coaching roles with the Nurnberg Ice Tigers, further solidifying her credentials. She also collaborated with Kraken goaltender Philipp Grubauer during the 2022 IIHF Men's World Championship, showcasing her ability to work at the highest levels of the sport.
Looking Ahead
With her appointment to the Kraken, Campbell will likely take the helm of the team's power play, a responsibility well-suited to her expertise. She brings a growth-oriented mindset to her new role, emphasizing hard work and perseverance.
“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,” said Campbell. She added, “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's philosophy centers around continuous improvement and dedication to her craft. “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 explained.
Impact on the Team
Campbell’s impact has already been felt in the development of young talents like Tye Kartye and Shane Wright. Kartye, who notched 20 points (11 goals, nine assists) in 77 games for the Kraken, is one such example of her effective mentorship.
The Kraken's decision to bring Campbell on as a full-time coach underscores their commitment to fostering a progressive environment and enhancing player development. Fresh off signing 2024 Stanley Cup champion Brandon Montour, the team is poised for a promising season ahead.
As the Kraken gear up for another exciting chapter, Campbell's appointment not only breaks barriers but sets a precedent for greater inclusivity and innovation in the NHL. Her journey and contributions paint a promising picture for the future of the sport.