Jessica Campbell becomes NHL's first female coach

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Josh Tupper
July 3, 2024 (2:10 PM)

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The Seattle Kraken have made National Hockey League history on Wednesday, hiring the first female coach to be behind the bench ever.

According to Ryan S. Clark of ESPN, the Seattle Kraken have made it official and have hired Jessica Campbell as an assistant coach on Dan Bylsma's staff for next season.

"BREAKING: The Seattle Kraken have hired Jessica Campbell as an assistant coach which makes her the first woman in NHL history to be behind the bench. #SeaKraken" Clark said.

Jessica Campbell, 31, has made history by becoming the first female assistant coach in the National Hockey League (NHL). Her journey began two years ago when she was hired by the Seattle Kraken as an assistant coach for their American Hockey League (AHL) affiliate, the Coachella Valley Firebirds. During her tenure, the Firebirds reached the Calder Cup Finals in back-to-back seasons.

Campbell's experience also extends to the international stage, where she served as an assistant coach for Germany during the 2022 IIHF Men's World Hockey Championship. Although they finished seventh after a quarterfinal loss to Czechia, her involvement marked a significant milestone in her coaching career.

The hiring of Jessica Campbell is a groundbreaking moment for women in sports and a source of inspiration for young girls who aspire to become coaches in the NHL. Her appointment sets a precedent, paving the way for future generations of female coaches to follow in her footsteps. Campbell's achievement shatters glass ceilings and demonstrates the growing recognition of women's contributions to the world of hockey.

Source: Blade of Steel
Seattle Kraken hire first female bench coach in National Hockey League history