Jessica Campbell: Breaking Barriers and Inspiring the Next Generation of Hockey Coaches
Jessica Campbell is making history as the assistant coach for the Seattle Kraken, becoming the first woman to hold this position in NHL history. Her promotion from the Coachella Valley, the Kraken’s American Hockey League affiliate, marked a significant milestone for women in professional hockey. In a recent interview, Campbell shared her experiences, insights, and aspirations for the future of the game.
The Drive for Playoff Contention
The Seattle Kraken are focused on returning to the Stanley Cup Playoffs for the second time in their five-season history. “That’s been the goal all year, is to get back into the playoff run,” Campbell stated. “It’s a tough League. It’s hard to win, and night to night everyone can beat everyone. We’ve seen that, we’ve experienced that. We’re surely in a position where we can keep fighting and pushing.” Currently (as of March 19, 2024), the Kraken (32-29-11) are two points behind the Nashville Predators (34-31-9) for the second wild card spot in the Western Conference.
Lessons Learned and Growth as a Coach
Reflecting on her second season in the NHL, Campbell emphasizes the immense growth she’s experienced. “I take a lot of pride in being in the position I get to be in. I love what I do. I love the challenge the NHL schedule presents and the group. There’s never a day when I don’t look across the room and see the best players in the world.” She highlights the reciprocal learning process, noting how the players inspire her to become a better coach and person.
Campbell has adapted her coaching style, becoming more assertive while remaining true to her core values of positivity, communication, and player support. “I’m a lot tougher than maybe I used to be,” she admits. “Just understanding the strength that comes with delivering positive messages or the tougher message and how that behavior and response changes in a good way when taking a harder approach.”
The Importance of Player Development and Support
A key aspect of Campbell’s role involves supporting players, from rookies to veterans, in maximizing their potential. She works primarily with the forwards, focusing on both offensive and defensive strategies. “It’s about the journey,” she explains. “Every day I’m looking at the different ways I can help them get to that work, get to that process and be motivated.” She’s learned to leverage video analysis effectively, recognizing players’ emotional and physical energy levels.
Mentorship and Paving the Way for Future Female Coaches
Campbell actively seeks mentorship from experienced coaches like Ken Hitchcock and aims to provide guidance to aspiring female coaches. “I didn’t have a blueprint coming into this and now I’m hoping to lay some of that for others,” she says. She emphasizes the importance of a strong support system and collaboration among women in hockey.
Celebrating Progress and Inspiring Future Generations
Campbell expressed her excitement and pride regarding Kim Weiss’s recent appointment as assistant coach for the Colorado Eagles of the AHL. “It’s incredible. We’re getting there. We’re chipping away. I’m so proud of Kim.” She believes that increased representation of women in coaching roles will benefit both the women’s and men’s games. The growth of the women’s game, with rising youth hockey participation numbers, is a testament to the positive impact of role models like Jessica Campbell.
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