Jessica Campbell Makes NHL History

Jessica Campbell acknowledges the “magnitude and importance” of her historic role as the NHL’s first female full-time assistant coach. Hired by the Seattle Kraken in July, the 32-year-old made her debut behind the bench during the season opener against the St. Louis Blues. “I understand that this moment carries significant weight for our game,” Campbell stated. “It fuels me every day to know that I’m part of something much larger than myself.”

Before joining the Kraken, Campbell made history in the American Hockey League (AHL) as an assistant coach for the Coachella Valley Firebirds. She played a crucial role in leading the team to the Calder Cup Finals in both of her seasons with them. The Kraken, coached by Stanley Cup champion Dan Bylsma welcomed Campbell as he took the helm in May.

Despite the Kraken’s 3-2 loss to the Blues in their opening match, Bylsma praised Campbell’s presence in the NHL. “Having Jessica as a female coach in the NHL for the first time is fantastic for her and for the game,” he remarked. Campbell expressed hope that her success would pave the way for future female coaches. “I hope that someone else will have a door held open for them instead of having to push it open and find ways to unlock it,” she said.

She also commended the efforts of other women in the industry, emphasizing that their contributions are part of a broader movement for change. “I see the other women around me doing a fantastic job. It’s part of a movement and represents really important change in the sport,” Jessica Campbell concluded.