Jessica Campbell Makes NHL History as First Female Assistant Coach
Jessica Campbell made headlines on the opening night of the NHL season, becoming the first-ever female assistant coach in the league’s history. Campbell stood behind the bench as the Seattle Kraken faced off against the St. Louis Blues at Seattle’s Climate Pledge Arena on Tuesday.
Campbell, 32, was appointed assistant coach in July by head coach Dan Bylsma. The two had previously worked together for the Kraken’s minor league affiliate, the Coachella Valley Firebirds. Campbell’s appointment marks a significant milestone in the male-dominated sport, furthering her trailblazing career as a female coach in professional hockey.
Breaking Barriers in the NHL
Campbell acknowledged the weight of her achievement in an interview with NHL.com. “The year ahead is going to be a lot of fun. But to know and understand that at the forefront are the thoughts of other women and people who have the same aspirations as I do,” she said. “To carry that torch every day puts meaning into the work.”
Despite the historic moment, Campbell approached the season opener with a business-as-usual attitude. “Much like riding a bike,” she told ESPN after the first period. “I’ve been at this for a while now, but the excitement and energy of a new season are definitely there.”
Campbell’s Impressive Career
Before transitioning into coaching, Campbell had an accomplished playing career. She was a key member of the Canadian team that won gold at the 2010 Under-18 Women’s World Championship and secured silver in 2009 and again at the 2015 Women’s World Championship. Campbell’s extensive experience on the ice has translated into her success behind the bench, where her leadership continues to make waves.
In 2022, Campbell became the first female coach in the American Hockey League (AHL) while coaching the Coachella Valley Firebirds under Bylsma. Her innovative coaching methods and ability to connect with players have been widely praised.
Coach Dan Bylsma on Campbell’s Leadership
Head coach Dan Bylsma has been an advocate for Campbell’s growth as a coach. He reflected on their working relationship during their time with the Firebirds. “Two years ago, she was a young coach. She had to grow and improve, and our relationship has been about that,” Bylsma told NHL.com. “I probably challenged her a few times to do things differently or think about things differently. But she has also, knowingly or not, challenged me as a coach.”
Bylsma’s faith in Campbell’s coaching skills and her ability to elevate players individually and as a team led to her NHL opportunity. “I believe in the skill and attributes she brings to the players. She helps them become better in their own way and contributes to the team’s success.”
A New Era for Women in Hockey
Jessica Campbell’s historic debut as the first female assistant coach in the NHL paves the way for more women in professional hockey. Her rise in the coaching ranks serves as inspiration for other aspiring female athletes and coaches, signaling a new era of inclusivity in the sport.
As Campbell takes on this new chapter with the Kraken, her leadership and coaching expertise will be instrumental in shaping the team’s success and further breaking down barriers for women in hockey.
Source : CNN
