In a groundbreaking move for gender equality in professional hockey, Jessica Campbell has been promoted to assistant coach of the Seattle Kraken, becoming the first woman to hold that position full-time with an NHL team. This historic decision was announced on Wednesday, marking a significant milestone for women in the sport.

Campbell brings a wealth of experience to her new role, having spent the past two seasons as an assistant coach with the Coachella Valley Firebirds, the AHL affiliate of the Kraken. Working alongside Dan Bylsma, Campbell played a key role in guiding the Firebirds to the Calder Cup Final in consecutive years.

During her time with the Firebirds, Campbell demonstrated her versatility by overseeing the forwards and power play, as well as conducting skills development sessions. Her expertise as a world-class skating coach and former high-level national team player in Canada proved instrumental in the development of several young prospects within the organization.

One standout player who benefited from Campbell's guidance is forward Tye Kartye. As an undrafted free agent, Kartye impressed under Campbell's tutelage in the AHL, earning the title of Rookie of the Year in 2023. This success propelled him to a role with the Kraken this past season, highlighting Campbell's ability to nurture talent.

Campbell's appointment as a full-time assistant coach puts her in an exclusive group of women working in the NHL as traveling full-time members of coaching staffs. Currently, she joins Emily Engel-Natzke, a video coach for the Washington Capitals, as the only other woman holding such a position.

Having already broken barriers in her coaching career, Campbell became the first woman to be a full-time assistant coach in the AHL when she joined Coachella Valley in 2022. She also made history as the first woman to coach at the men's IIHF World Hockey Championship in 2022 when she served as an assistant coach for the German team.

The decision to appoint Campbell as an assistant coach for the Kraken is a testament to her abilities rather than her gender. Kraken general manager Ron Francis highlighted her exceptional coaching skills and unique background in skating and skill development as the reasons behind her hiring.

Campbell's appointment has received widespread support, with head coach Dan Bylsma emphasizing her commitment to player development and her ability to build strong relationships with her players. Bylsma expressed enthusiasm about continuing to work with Campbell at the NHL level.

Campbell will join Bob Woods and Dave Lowry as assistants on Bylsma's coaching staff in Seattle. Her presence on the bench as the first full-time female assistant coach in the NHL marks a significant step forward for gender diversity and inclusion in professional hockey. The Seattle Kraken's decision to hire Campbell not only recognizes her talent but also sets a progressive example for the entire league.