Trailblazing Coaching Appointment: Jessica Campbell Joins Seattle Kraken Staff
Jessica Campbell has shattered another glass ceiling in the world of professional hockey, marking an unprecedented milestone in the NHL's storied history. The Seattle Kraken recently announced Campbell's appointment to their coaching staff, making her the first woman to serve as a full-time coach in the league.
Proven Track Record in Player Development
Campbell's resume speaks volumes about her qualifications and experience. Prior to joining the Kraken, she was an assistant coach with the Coachella Valley Firebirds. Her tenure with the Firebirds was particularly noteworthy for her exceptional management of the team's power play and her influential role in developing talent. Under her watchful eye, Tye Kartye flourished and went on to win the 2023 AHL Dudley "Red" Garrett Award for the most outstanding rookie.
Kraken coach Dan Bylsma has high praise for Campbell's 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," he remarked.
Breaking Barriers and Setting Precedents
Campbell's trailblazing journey isn't confined to her recent achievements. In 2022, she became the first woman to coach in the American Hockey League (AHL). Moreover, she was the first woman to coach a men's national team during the 2022 IIHF Men's World Championship with Team Germany. Her coaching prowess also extends to power-skating, having worked with distinguished athletes like Natalie Spooner and Joel Edmundson, and directly influencing the development of Kraken goaltender Philipp Grubauer during the same championship.
Reflecting on her journey, Campbell remains humbly focused on the tasks at hand. "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 stated.
She added, "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."
Future Impact on the Kraken
With her extensive experience and proven track record, Campbell is poised to make a significant impact on the Kraken's performance. It is expected that she will take on the responsibility of heading the team's power play, a role she excelled in with the Firebirds.
As the Kraken continue to build their roster and coaching team, the addition of Campbell brings a fresh and dynamic perspective to the organization. The team's recent signing of 2024 Stanley Cup champion Brandon Montour further underscores their commitment to building a competitive and resourceful squad.
Campbell's philosophy on coaching and player development aligns well with the Kraken's goals. "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 emphasized.
Bylsma also highlighted Campbell's pivotal role in developing burgeoning talents such as Shane Wright and Ryker Evans. Her ability to cultivate relationships and foster growth among players has been integral to the team's strategy.
Jessica Campbell's appointment marks a new chapter for the Seattle Kraken and the NHL at large. Her trailblazing presence on the coaching staff is more than a milestone; it's a testament to her relentless dedication and exceptional skill in a sport traditionally dominated by men.