Seattle Kraken hires first female assistant coach in NHL history

NHL history has been made in Seattle! Today, July 3rd, 2024, the Seattle Kraken announced that Bob Woods and Jessica Campbell have been hired as assistant coaches, making Jessica Campbell the first woman to be named an assistant, associate or head coach in the league’s history.

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“This is an important day for our organization,” says Seattle Kraken General Manager Ron Francis. “We’re bringing in valuable coaching experience to our staff and are confident that both Bob and Jessica will make an immediate impact for our team.”

Campbell’s coaching resume is pretty decorated, making the shift to Seattle after spending the last two seasons in Coachella Valley with the Firebirds, also under Dan Bylsma, Head Coach for the Kraken.

During her time there, the Firebirds led the AHL with 252 goals and reached the Calder Cup Finals in consecutive seasons.

In 2021 – 2022, Campbell also worked as an assistant coach and skills coach for the Nürnberg Ice Tigers of the DEL, the top men’s professional league in Germany.

On the international stage, the 32-year-old served as an assistant coach for Team Germany at the 2022 IIHF World Championship.

“During our tenure in Coachella Valley, I saw firsthand Jessica’s commitment to player development,” says Seattle Kraken Head Coach Dan Bylsma.

“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,” Bylsma continues.

Welcome to Seattle, Jessica Campbell and Go Kraken!