Breaking the Ice: Jessica Campbell Joins Seattle Kraken Coaching Staff
In a historic move for the National Hockey League (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 storied history.
A Trailblazer's Journey
Jessica Campbell's appointment marks the latest milestone in a career defined by breaking barriers. Campbell previously served as an assistant coach with the Coachella Valley Firebirds, where she managed the team’s power play and played a pivotal role in player development. Her coaching acumen was on full display as she guided Tye Kartye, who later clinched the prestigious 2023 AHL Dudley "Red" Garrett Award for the most outstanding rookie.
Campbell has consistently shattered glass ceilings. During the 2022 IIHF Men's World Championship, she was the first woman to coach a men's national team, guiding Team Germany. She also served in coaching roles with the Nurnberg Ice Tigers in 2021 and worked closely with Seattle Kraken goaltender Philipp Grubauer during the championship.
A Proven Record of Leadership
Jessica Campbell's leadership skills were evident even during her playing days. As captain, she led the team in the first-ever CWHL All-Star Game during the 2014-15 season. Her transition into coaching brought the same enthusiasm and commitment to developing talent. Seattle Kraken coach Dan Bylsma has high praise for Campbell, singling out her dedication to 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,” Bylsma stated.
A Commitment to Excellence
Campbell’s philosophy centers on diligence and growth. “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 remarked. Her drive to excel is apparent as she continually dedicates herself to improving both her skills and the performance of her players. “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 approach is not just about immediate success but fostering long-term growth. “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 Kraken
With Campbell joining the coaching staff, the Seattle Kraken’s trajectory appears more promising than ever. Her expertise in power-skating has sharpened the skills of notable athletes like Natalie Spooner and Joel Edmundson, and she is expected to bring similar enhancements to the Kraken’s power play.
Furthermore, Kraken fans can be optimistic about the development of budding stars. Campbell played a crucial role in honing the skills of players like Tye Kartye, whose performance in the AHL was nothing short of stellar, scoring 20 points (11 goals, nine assists) over 77 games for the Kraken. Additionally, players like Shane Wright and Ryker Evans are expected to benefit immensely from her guidance.
A Future to Look Forward To
The Seattle Kraken also bolstered their roster by signing 2024 Stanley Cup champion Brandon Montour. This acquisition, combined with Campbell’s innovative coaching techniques, sets the stage for an exciting future for the team. As Campbell steps into this historic role, her focus remains steadfast on growth and development, both for herself and her players. The NHL is poised for a new era of inclusivity and excellence, with Jessica Campbell leading the charge from behind the bench.