Breaking Glass Ceilings: Jessica Campbell Joins Seattle Kraken Coaching Staff
The Seattle Kraken have made a historic appointment by adding Jessica Campbell to their coaching staff. Campbell becomes the first woman to serve as a full-time coach in the NHL's storied history, marking a significant step forward for gender diversity in professional hockey.
A Trailblazer in the Hockey World
Jessica Campbell's journey to the NHL is filled with pioneering moments. Before joining the Kraken, she was an assistant coach with the Coachella Valley Firebirds, where she played a critical role in managing the team's power play. Her efforts did not go unnoticed, particularly in her work with standout players like Tye Kartye. Kartye's exceptional performance under Campbell's guidance earned him the 2023 AHL Dudley "Red" Garrett Award for the most outstanding rookie.
Campbell's impact stretches beyond her time in the AHL. In 2022, she became the first woman to coach in the league, setting a precedent for future female coaches. Her leadership ability was evident well before her professional coaching career; during the 2014-15 season, she served as team captain in the inaugural CWHL All-Star Game, showcasing her knack for leadership and excellence in women's hockey.
Experience with International and National Teams
Campbell's coaching credentials are not confined to North America. She broke another barrier in 2022 by becoming the first woman to coach a men's national team during the IIHF Men's World Championship, working with Team Germany. Her international experience also includes coaching roles with the Nurnberg Ice Tigers in 2021 and working as a power-skating coach for notable athletes such as Natalie Spooner and Joel Edmundson.
Kraken goaltender Philipp Grubauer also benefited from Campbell's expertise during the 2022 IIHF Men's World Championship, adding another layer to her impressive resume.
Commitment to Player Development
Kraken coach Dan Bylsma emphasized Campbell's unparalleled commitment to player development, a quality that was vital in the decision to bring her into the Kraken organization. "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 remarked.
Campbell's focus on development aligns with her coaching philosophy. "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. Her dedication to maintaining a growth mindset is clear. "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 added.
Looking Ahead with the Kraken
While Campbell is set to take on significant responsibilities with the Kraken, particularly heading the team's power play, the organization will also benefit from her approach to fostering talent and building relationships. Her track record speaks volumes about her ability to develop players, and her new role promises to bring innovative perspectives to the professional hockey scene.
The Seattle Kraken, who recently signed 2024 Stanley Cup champion Brandon Montour, are making strategic moves both on and off the ice. With Jessica Campbell joining their coaching ranks, the team not only strengthens its technical arsenal but also underscores its commitment to breaking down barriers and promoting diversity within the sport.
As Campbell herself stated, "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.”
In a sport often defined by its traditions, the Seattle Kraken are charting a bold new course, and Jessica Campbell's appointment is a testament to their forward-thinking vision.