Holding Open the Door
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Tuesday marked a historic day at Climate Pledge Arena, showcasing a series of firsts. It was the inaugural game for head coach Dan Bylsma, defenseman Brandon Montour, and center Chandler Stephenson as members of the Kraken. Additionally, it was the first North American game of the 2024-25 NHL season. Most notably, when the puck dropped with Jessica Campbell behind Seattle's skaters, it was the first time a woman served as a full-time NHL assistant coach.While this milestone is significant, Campbell remained focused on the task at hand, attributing her success to the hard work that led her to this moment. “For me, it's just a normal day in terms of my work and my routine,” Campbell said. “I never want to diminish what I’m doing because I'm so focused on the task at hand. But I also know that being focused has allowed me to reach this point and will continue to do so. I have to prioritize what matters most—the players, the team, and our success.”
As the game commenced, Campbell took her usual position alongside fellow assistant coach Dave Lowry, focusing on the forwards and the power play with assistant Bob Woods. She communicated effectively with her players and coaches while keeping a keen eye on the action on the ice.
“I’ve seen her evolve as a coach,” said goaltender Joey Daccord. “In her first year with us in Coachella Valley, she was still figuring things out. Now, she’s much more assertive and has developed a great rapport with Dan, which allows them to execute their plans cohesively.”
While Campbell maintained a professional demeanor behind the bench, she had a robust cheering section nearby, including her aunt and uncle, her first minor league hockey coach Leo Parker and his wife, and the Bulawka family, who were instrumental in her early coaching career. Of course, her parents, Monique and Gary, were also there, with Monique proudly sporting a Kraken jersey.
“She received a huge cheer that was truly emotional and well-deserved,” Monique said. “I've seen how hard she has worked, studying the game and dedicating herself. It’s been exciting, and I deeply respect her work ethic.”
Six of Campbell's former teammates from college and Team Canada also attended, including Blayre Turnbull, Bailey Bram, and Jill Saulnier, who traveled from across North America to support her. “It’s every emotion you can imagine,” Turnbull shared. “To see Jess reach this milestone is incredibly special for all of us. We’re proud of her not just as a coach but as a person. That’s why she’s achieved so much at such a young age.”
When the final buzzer sounded, the Kraken didn’t achieve the desired outcome on the ice, but the moment wasn’t lost on the team. They recognize the impact Campbell has made, showing her commitment by arriving early for practices and staying late to help players improve. “It’s something we’ve all been proud to be a part of,” Vince Dunn noted. “It sends a powerful message for women everywhere, so it was a special moment for her tonight. It’s a shame we couldn’t get the win.”
After the game, Campbell reconnected with her family for a celebratory dinner, taking advantage of the 1:30 puck drop time. Reflecting on her achievements, she said that the significance often hits her later, reinforced by photos and comments from others. “I know that the kids attending their first hockey game tomorrow will see a female coach behind the bench, and that’s really special for me,” she said. “It motivates me to be part of something much bigger than myself. By showing up and staying focused, I believe only good can come from it.
“Hopefully, I can help open doors for others instead of having them struggle to push through. I admire the other women in this industry who are doing fantastic work; it’s all part of a movement for meaningful change. Having diverse voices in the room leads to unique solutions and progress in both life and sports.”