Jessica Campbell Is Out At Seattle After 2 Seasons, and the Kraken's Coaching Era Just Ended

The Seattle Kraken announced Thursday that Jessica Campbell, the NHL's first full-time female coach, won't be back next season. Her contract is expiring, and she's ready for a new challenge somewhere else in the league. Two years in, and the historic hire is already moving on.

How We Got Here

Before the 2024-25 season kicked off, the Kraken made headlines by bringing Campbell on board under head coach Dan Bylsma. The two had worked together with the Coachella Valley Firebirds in the American Hockey League, so there was already chemistry there. When Bylsma lost his job last summer, most figured Campbell would go with him. She didn't. She stuck around with the team and kept working. That changed this year.

What Campbell's Departure Means

During her two seasons on the job, the Kraken finished seventh in the Pacific Division one year and sixth the next. No playoffs both times. That's a tough pill to swallow, and it clearly prompted both sides to look at other options.

GM Jason Botterill released a statement backing Campbell's decision to explore what's out there: "We support her in this process. 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."

It's a classy way out. Campbell, 33, also has experience as an assistant coach for the German men's national team, so she's got options. Could she return to Seattle down the road? Maybe. But right now, she's looking elsewhere, and the Kraken are going to have to figure out what comes next.

This article was created with AI assistance and reviewed by Seattle On Tap editorial staff. Always verify information with official team sources.