In an unprecedented move, the Seattle Kraken have appointed Jessica Campbell to their coaching staff, a significant milestone in the world of professional hockey. Campbell’s appointment marks her as the first woman to officially hold a full-time coaching position in the National Hockey League (NHL), a testament to her trailblazing career and dedication to the sport.
A Breakthrough in Hockey History
Jessica Campbell's journey to the NHL has been paved with historic firsts. In 2022, Campbell shattered barriers as the first woman to coach in the American Hockey League (AHL), an accomplishment she followed with her role as an assistant coach for the Coachella Valley Firebirds. Her expertise in managing the Firebirds' power play was notably impactful, as evidenced by her work with standout players like Tye Kartye. Kartye's stellar performance earned him the 2023 AHL Dudley "Red" Garrett Award for most outstanding rookie, thanks in part to Campbell’s mentorship.
Campbell’s coaching prowess extends beyond the AHL. In the international arena, she became the first woman to coach a men's national team during the 2022 IIHF Men's World Championship with Team Germany, further solidifying her reputation as a skilled and innovative coach.
Commitment to Player Development
Her commitment to player development has consistently been acknowledged. Dan Bylsma, the Kraken’s head coach, emphasized Campbell's ability to establish strong relationships and develop players’ skills. “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 Bylsma.
This dedication is echoed in Campbell's own words. Reflecting on her career, she remarked, “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.” Her humility and focus on the process over accolades underline her steady ascent in the coaching ranks.
Power Skating and Specialized Coaching
A former team captain in the inaugural CWHL All-Star Game during the 2014-15 season, Campbell's experience on the ice is a cornerstone of her coaching philosophy. Her background as a player has translated into a specialized coaching role in power skating, benefiting athletes including Olympic gold medalist Natalie Spooner and NHL defenseman Joel Edmundson. This expertise will likely be a key asset for the Kraken, particularly in enhancing their power play strategies.
Campbell's coaching journey also included a stint with the Nurnberg Ice Tigers in 2021 and a significant role working with Kraken goaltender Philipp Grubauer during the 2022 IIHF Men's World Championship. These diverse experiences draw a comprehensive picture of a coach who brings both breadth and depth to her new role with the Kraken.
Looking Forward with the Kraken
As the Kraken gear up for the upcoming season, Campbell’s responsibilities are expected to include heading the team's power play. Her track record suggests she’s more than capable of rising to the challenge. Tye Kartye, one of her standout protégés, not only excelled under her guidance in the AHL but has also started to make his mark in the NHL, scoring 20 points (11 goals, nine assists) over 77 games for the Kraken.
Despite the groundbreaking nature of her appointment, Campbell remains grounded and focused on her long-term objectives. “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 stated, exemplifying her dedication to her craft.
Her growth mindset is intentional and deliberate, as she articulates, “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.”
The Seattle Kraken have also bolstered their roster by signing 2024 Stanley Cup champion Brandon Montour, looking to integrate strong new elements into their team dynamics. Campbell’s appointment and Montour’s addition reflect a strategic push towards enhancing both the coaching staff and player roster, setting the stage for an exciting season ahead.
Jessica Campbell’s journey from player to trailblazing coach is a remarkable narrative in the evolving landscape of professional hockey. As she steps into her new role with the Seattle Kraken, the NHL witnesses not just a historical appointment but the continuation of a dedicated coach’s quest to elevate the game and its players.