Trailblazing assistant coach Jessica Campbell leaving Kraken

Trailblazing assistant coach Jessica Campbell is leaving the Seattle Kraken after two seasons.

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The Kraken announced Thursday that Campbell will explore coaching opportunities with other teams in the NHL.

“As Jessica’s current contract expires, she has expressed her desire to explore other coaching roles across the League and we support her in this process,” general manager Jason Botterill said in a release from the team. “Jessica has been an important member of our coaching staff for the past four years, demonstrating deep knowledge and a unique ability to connect with and develop players. We respect her decision and believe strongly in her as a coach in this league.”

ESPN’s Emily Kaplan first reported Campbell would be leaving the team, noting the assistant coach’s contract expires this summer.

Campbell, 33, became the first woman to be a full-time assistant coach in NHL history when she was promoted by the Kraken in July 2024. She spent the two prior seasons with Kraken’s AHL affiliate, the Coachella Valley Firebirds, helping the team reach the Calder Cup Final in both years.

Kaplan reported the Kraken have left the door open for Campbell to return to the organization.

A Rocanville, Saskatchewan, native, Campbell played collegiately for Cornell University and professionally in the Canadian Women’s Hockey League. She was also a member of the Canadian national team.

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