Jessica Campbell’s journey to becoming the first female coach in the NHL is an inspiring story of resilience, passion, and breaking boundaries. Even if you’re not a hockey fan, her path is worth exploring for the lessons it holds about perseverance and making a mark in a male-dominated sport.
Jessica Campbell’s Early Life
Jessica Campbell was born into a hockey-loving family in Canada, where the sport was more than just a pastime—it was a way of life. Her older brother, Josh Campbell, was a talented young player with a promising future. He played for the Yorkton Terriers in the Saskatchewan Junior Hockey League, and his passion for the game influenced Jessica profoundly.
Tragically, on October 11, 2002, just days after his 18th birthday, Josh’s life was cut short in a car accident as he traveled back from a family Thanksgiving celebration. Jessica was only 10 at the time, and the loss of her brother left a huge void. To cope with the heartbreak, she found solace in the sport Josh had loved so much.
Jessica honored her brother’s legacy by adopting his jersey number, No. 8. She wore it throughout her career, from playing four years at Cornell University to representing Canada at the U18 World Championship, where she won a silver medal. She would go on to captain the team the following year, bringing home gold—all while proudly wearing No. 8, a tribute to Josh’s memory.
National’s
Jessica’s dream was always to represent Canada on the senior national team. However, the journey was not easy, and she faced three consecutive rejections before finally earning her spot. Remarkably, she received the call to join the team on October 11, 2014, the anniversary of her brother’s passing, exactly 12 years after his death. Once again, she donned No. 8 for Canada and went on to win a silver medal at the 2015 World Championship, realizing a long-held dream.
Jessica Campbell’s Coaching Journey After National Success
After retiring from professional play in 2017, Campbell began her coaching career as an assistant coach in the Women’s Canadian Sport School Hockey League U18, where she worked from 2017 to 2020. During this time, she also founded JC Powerskating, a coaching program that trained various notable hockey players. Her skills as a coach quickly gained attention, and when the COVID-19 pandemic halted training schedules, she seized the opportunity to work with NHL players, further solidifying her reputation.
In 2022, Jessica expanded her coaching experience internationally by joining Team Germany as an assistant coach for the IIHF World Championships. This role showcased her abilities on a larger stage and paved the way for even greater opportunities.
Path in the AHL and NHL
In July 2022, Campbell broke barriers by becoming the first woman to hold a full-time coaching position in the American Hockey League (AHL) when she was hired as an assistant coach for the Coachella Valley Firebirds. Her impact was felt immediately, with the team achieving back-to-back conference titles under her guidance.
Then, on July 3, 2024, Jessica was appointed as an assistant coach for the Seattle Kraken, making history once more as the first female coach to hold a position on an NHL bench. She officially debuted during the Kraken’s season opener on October 8, 2024, marking a significant milestone for women in sports.
Jessica Campbell’s story is one of resilience, ambition, and breaking down barriers. From a young girl playing hockey to honor her brother, to a trailblazing coach in the NHL, she has carved out her own path in the sport. As she continues to make history, one can only wonder what heights she will reach next. Here’s to celebrating her incredible journey and wishing her all the best as she embarks on this new chapter in her career.
Jessica Campbell has shown us that when one road ends, it is possible to forge a new path. Her journey isn’t just a personal triumph; it’s a powerful reminder that there is room for everyone in the world of sports, and it inspires us all to dream big.
