NEWS     POLLS     NHL STATS     SEARCH

TRENDING NOW


Jessica Campbell opens up about being the first woman coach in the NHL


PUBLICATION
Vince Carbonneau
September 2, 2024  (6:24 PM)
SHARE THIS STORY
FOLLOW US




Jessica campbell in action
Photo credit: TSN

Jessica Campbell reflects on her journey as the first woman to coach in the NHL

Jessica Campbell made history last month when she was hired as an assistant coach for the Seattle Kraken, becoming the first woman in NHL history to serve on the bench in this role.
The 32-year-old Rocanville, Saskatchewan native spent the last two seasons as an assistant coach for the Kraken's AHL affiliate, the Coachella Valley Firebirds, working alongside head coach Dan Bylsma. Bylsma, who took the head coaching role with the Kraken in late May, will continue working with Campbell in Seattle.
Campbell's playing career was equally impressive. She was a standout in the NCAA, played in the Canadian Women's Hockey League, and represented Canada's women's national team, earning a silver medal at the 2015 World Championship.
Ahead of Kelowna Hockey Fest, Campbell sat down with CBC's Chris Walker to reflect on her journey.
You've coached players at all levels, including some here in the Okanagan. How do your early experiences shape this next chapter?

«In sports, you're always drawing on past experiences. My early work in Kelowna was essential to building my confidence and establishing my coaching voice. It allowed me to find my footing, especially when I was working independently with professional players. Those years really solidified who I am as a coach.»

How do you build relationships with a team of 30 players you may not know well?


«Building relationships is more than people think. Ultimately, it's about connecting with players as human beings first. Gender isn't a factor-athletes want to feel supported, and they want to know you care. I'm here to guide them, support them, and help them succeed. Building rapport and trust takes time, but if you're truly invested in their growth, they'll see that.»

You've mentioned that many barriers are self-imposed. How have you overcome those?


«I've always believed that challenges are part of the journey. There will always be external factors that try to hold you back, but for me, it's about maintaining a strong belief in my abilities. I focus on what I can control and drown out the noise. By keeping a positive mindset and being optimistic, I've been able to push past any barriers in my way.»
POLL
2 SEPTEMBRE   |   5 ANSWERS
Jessica Campbell opens up about being the first woman coach in the NHL

Do you think Jessica Campbell's success will encourage more women to pursue coaching roles in the NHL?

Yes5100 %
No00 %
LIST OF POLLS
Latest 10 stories

KRAKENLATEST.COM
COPYRIGHT @2024 - ALL RIGHTS RESERVED.
TERMS  -  POLICIES  -  CONSENT