Tuesday’s game at Climate Pledge Arena was a night of milestones for the Seattle Kraken, but one of the biggest belonged to Jessica Campbell. As the puck dropped to open the 2024-25 NHL season, Campbell made history as the first woman to work full-time behind the bench as an NHL assistant coach.
Though the moment marked a significant breakthrough for women in hockey, Campbell was focused on the task at hand. “For me, it’s just a normal day in terms of my work, in terms of my routine,” she explained, emphasizing that her dedication to the team has been what got her to this historic moment.
A Career Built on Hard Work
Campbell’s journey to this moment was built on determination and preparation. She shares responsibility for the Kraken’s forwards with assistant coach Dave Lowry, and works with Bob Woods on the team’s power play. Her work ethic hasn’t gone unnoticed by the team, with goaltender Joey Daccord noting her evolution as a coach. “She’s really smart, and she and [head coach] Dan [Bylsma] are just on the same page,” he said. “It really allows them to be cohesive in their plan and execute for the team.”
While Campbell stayed laser-focused on her work during the game, her supporters were there in force. Her family—including her first minor league coach, former skating students, and six of her former college and Team Canada teammates—made sure to celebrate the occasion. “She got a really big cheer today that was really emotional and heartfelt,” Campbell’s mother, Monique, said proudly. “I’ve seen her work really, really hard.”
A Special Milestone for Women in Hockey
Although the Kraken didn’t win the game, the significance of Campbell’s milestone wasn’t lost on the team. Vince Dunn acknowledged the importance of the moment, saying, “It certainly makes a statement around the world for all women… It’s a special moment for her tonight.”
Campbell reflected on the broader impact of her achievement, particularly for young fans. “I just know that the young kids who are at their first hockey game tomorrow, all they’re going to know is that there can be a female coach behind the bench,” she said. “That fuels me every day… I know that only good can come of it.”
Looking ahead, Campbell hopes her trailblazing work will open doors for other women in sports. “Hopefully somebody else will have a door held open for them versus them having to push it open and find ways to unlock it.”
Celebrating with Loved Ones
After the game, Campbell regrouped with her family and friends, embracing the moment over a celebratory dinner. Though the full weight of her achievement may take time to sink in, she’s already fully aware of its importance. “It’s part of a movement… part of really important change,” Campbell said. “Anytime you have different people in the room, you get different and good outcomes.”
As the first full-time female assistant coach in the NHL, Campbell’s story is not just about breaking barriers but about paving the way for future generations of women in sports.
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