Breaking Barriers: Jessica Campbell Joins Seattle Kraken Coaching Staff
In a historic move, Jessica Campbell has been appointed to the coaching staff of the Seattle Kraken, shattering glass ceilings as the first woman to serve as a full-time coach in the NHL's storied history. This landmark appointment signals a significant stride for gender inclusivity and diversity in professional hockey.
Campbell's ascension to this prestigious role comes on the heels of an impressive career marked by her dedication and exceptional coaching acumen. Previously, she served as an assistant coach with the Coachella Valley Firebirds, an AHL affiliate of the Kraken, where she made history as the first woman to coach in the league in 2022. During her tenure with the Firebirds, Campbell managed the team's power play and played a pivotal role in the development of young talent.
Tye Kartye, one of Campbell's standout protégés, clinched the 2023 AHL Dudley "Red" Garrett Award for the most outstanding rookie under her guidance. Kartye's remarkable performance, tallying 20 points with 11 goals and nine assists over 77 games for the Kraken, underscores Campbell's impact on 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,” said Kraken coach Dan Bylsma, highlighting Campbell's instrumental role in nurturing emerging talent.
Campbell's coaching journey is rich with trailblazing achievements. In 2014-15, she captained the inaugural CWHL All-Star Game, setting the tone for her leadership prowess. She further distinguished herself in 2021, taking on coaching duties with the Nurnberg Ice Tigers and later becoming the first woman to coach a men's national team during the 2022 IIHF Men's World Championship with Team Germany. During this championship, she worked closely with Kraken goaltender Philipp Grubauer, adding another layer of depth to her extensive coaching résumé.
“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,” reflected Campbell on her groundbreaking appointment. Her emphasis on hard work and dedication resonates through her coaching philosophy, underscoring a relentless pursuit of excellence.
Campbell's expertise extends beyond team strategy and player development; she has also excelled as a power-skating coach, working with elite athletes like Natalie Spooner and Joel Edmundson. This specific skill set will likely play a central role in her responsibilities with the Kraken, particularly in overseeing the team’s power play.
“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, emphasizing her commitment to her craft and the journey rather than the accolades.
Jessica Campbell's appointment is not just a personal triumph but a beacon of progress within the hockey community. As she steps onto the NHL stage with the Seattle Kraken, she does so not only as a pioneer for women in sports but also as a testament to the transformative power of perseverance, expertise, and an unwavering growth mindset.
“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 asserted, embodying the forward-thinking vision that will undoubtedly drive her success at the highest echelons of ice hockey.