Seattle Kraken Make Historic Coaching Appointment
In a groundbreaking move that sends waves of change through the NHL, the Seattle Kraken have appointed Jessica Campbell to their coaching staff, making her the first woman to serve as a full-time coach in the league's history. This milestone continues Campbell's trailblazing path in hockey, building on her impressive resume and significant achievements.
Campbell's journey has been marked by pioneering moments. She first broke barriers in 2022 when she became the first woman to coach in the American Hockey League (AHL), serving as an assistant coach with the Coachella Valley Firebirds. During her tenure with the Firebirds, Campbell managed the team’s power play, significantly impacting player development and team performance. Most notably, she coached Tye Kartye, who later won the 2023 AHL Dudley "Red" Garrett Award for the most outstanding rookie.
Kraken coach Dan Bylsma has witnessed Campbell’s dedication and influence firsthand. “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,” he remarked, underscoring the key role Campbell played in nurturing young talent.
Campbell’s credentials extend beyond her time with the Firebirds. She was the first woman to coach a men’s national team during the 2022 IIHF Men’s World Championship with Team Germany. Additionally, she has worked as a power-skating coach for notable athletes such as Natalie Spooner and Joel Edmundson and served in coaching roles with the Nurnberg Ice Tigers in 2021. Campbell also collaborated with current Kraken goaltender Philipp Grubauer during the 2022 IIHF Men’s World Championship.
Reflecting on her appointment, Campbell conveyed her gratitude and determination. “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,” Campbell said. Her focus remains firmly on her work and the impact she hopes to bring to the team. “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,” she added.
The Kraken are well-positioned to benefit from Campbell’s expertise, particularly in refining their power play strategy. Given her successful management of the Firebirds’ power play, Campbell’s strategic acumen will be a valuable asset. As the Kraken look toward future successes, her role in developing top players like Kartye, Wright, and Evans will be critical.
“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 noted, emphasizing her forward-thinking approach.
In addition to Campbell’s appointment, the Kraken have bolstered their roster by signing 2024 Stanley Cup champion Brandon Montour. This significant acquisition further underscores the team’s commitment to building a competitive and dynamic roster capable of achieving excellence.
As the NHL continues to evolve, the Seattle Kraken’s historic appointment of Jessica Campbell heralds a new era of inclusivity and progress. Campbell’s proven track record, coupled with her pioneering spirit, will undoubtedly inspire future generations of athletes and coaches alike.