Breaking Barriers: Jessica Campbell Joins Seattle Kraken Coaching Staff
In a historic move for the NHL, Jessica Campbell has been appointed to the Seattle Kraken's coaching staff, becoming the first woman to serve as a full-time coach in the league's history. Campbell's groundbreaking journey through the hockey world showcases her dedication, skill, and relentless pursuit of excellence.
Prior to joining the Kraken, Campbell demonstrated her coaching prowess with the Coachella Valley Firebirds, where she was instrumental in managing the team's power play. During her tenure, she played a fundamental role in the development of future stars, a fact highlighted by Kraken coach Dan Bylsma.
"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 noted.
The significance of Campbell's achievement is amplified when considering her distinguished background. In the 2014-15 season, she made history serving as the team captain in the first-ever CWHL All-Star Game. This position laid the foundation for her future roles in coaching, including making waves in the American Hockey League (AHL) in 2022 by becoming the first woman to coach in the league.
During the 2022 IIHF Men's World Championship, Campbell broke another barrier as the first woman to coach a men's national team, serving with Team Germany. Her coaching acumen didn't stop there; she has also worked as a power-skating coach for elite athletes like Natalie Spooner and Joel Edmundson, further illustrating her deep understanding of the game and its nuances.
At the Firebirds, Campbell's ability was unmistakable as she helped mold Tye Kartye into an outstanding rookie. Kartye flourished under her guidance, securing the 2023 AHL Dudley "Red" Garrett Award with 20 points (11 goals, nine assists) over 77 games for the Kraken. This success underlines Campbell's impact and effectiveness in nurturing young talent.
Speaking about her journey and new role, Campbell expressed her commitment and perspective: "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."
She continued, "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 and approach align with a broader vision of growth and constant 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 explained.
As Campbell steps into her new role with the Kraken, she is poised to continue making an impact. The team has clearly recognized her talent and dedication, anticipating that she will head their power play strategies moving forward. This confidence is reflected in Bylsma's words and the organizational support she has received.
In addition to Campbell's appointment, the Kraken has bolstered their roster by signing 2024 Stanley Cup champion Brandon Montour, indicating their commitment to building a competitive and dynamic team. The fusion of new talent and experienced coaching seems to set the stage for a promising season.
Jessica Campbell's journey is a testament to her tenacity, expertise, and the strides women are making in professional sports. Her historic appointment with the Seattle Kraken marks another significant milestone, not only for her career but for the broader landscape of hockey.
With her steadfast growth mindset and substantial experience, Campbell is set to make a lasting impact in the NHL. Her story continues to inspire and break down barriers, paving the way for future generations of women in hockey.