Jessica Campbell, who made history as the first woman to serve as an on-bench assistant coach in the National Hockey League, will depart from the Seattle Kraken next season.
General manager Jason Botterill confirmed Campbell’s contract is expiring and she wishes to explore other roles across the league.
“We support her in this process,” Botterill stated.
“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.”
Campbell was promoted to the Kraken in 2024 from the American Hockey League’s Coachella Valley Firebirds, initially alongside Dan Bylsma.
She was retained after Bylsma’s dismissal a year ago and replaced by Lane Lambert.
While the Kraken have missed the playoffs in the past two seasons, the Firebirds reached back-to-back Calder Cup Finals during Campbell’s tenure on Bylsma’s AHL staff.
