Kraken's First Woman Coach Brings Diversity in Sport and Experience

Jessica Campbell is breaking new ground as the first woman behind an NHL bench, serving as an assistant coach for the Seattle Kraken. However, making history in women's sports is nothing new for the trailblazing Campbell. Prior to the Kraken, Campbell made history as the first woman to serve as an assistant coach in the AHL with the Coachella Valley Firebirds. In the Firebirds first two seasons, Campbell and head coach, Dan Bylsma, took the team to the Calder Cup finals. 

Even earlier, Campbell was promoted from skills coach to assistant coach for the Nürnberg Ice Tigers and was the first woman assistant coach for the German men's team in the 2022 World Championships.

Campbell's drive for success began early in her junior years playing in Saskatchewan, Canada with the Melville Prairie Fire from 2006-2008. As a goal leader Campbell helped Melville win a gold medal in the Saskatchewan provincials. 

During her two years at the Pursuit of Excellence hockey academy, Campbell helped win a silver medal in the 2008 Kamloops International Bantam Ice Hockey Tournament and secured the 2010 Challenge Cup for the Junior Women's Hockey League, earning MVP honors.

During her time at college, Campbell participated in Cornell University's Women's ice hockey program and competed in the NCAA's Frozen Four in 2010, facing off against the Boston University Terriers.

Post college Campbell joined the Canadian Women's Hockey League's Calgary Inferno in 2014 and was the first rookie to Captain in an all star game. Campbell's high scoring assisted the Inferno in winning the team's first Clarkson Cup Championship in 2016.

Campbell's strong leadership on the ice seamlessly led to the start of her coaching career with JC Powerskating in 2017. With over two decades of achievements, awards, and milestones, Campbell has toured internationally, attracting clients who have competed in the Olympics and national competitions.

Kraken GM Ron Francis has stated "She gives the Kraken the best chance to win right now!" and based on her record with Coachella Valley Firebirds, most fans hope he is right.

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