Canucks Eye Jessica Campbell, NHL's First Female Coach, for AHL Position

Just over a month after her departure from the Seattle Kraken, Jessica Campbell, the NHL's pioneering full-time female coach, may be on the cusp of a new opportunity. Campbell, who spent the last two years as an assistant coach with the Kraken and previously guided the Coachella Valley Firebirds in the AHL, is reportedly attracting attention from another franchise.

According to Sportsnet's Elliotte Friedman, the Abbotsford Canucks' coaching position in the AHL is set to become available, and they may be considering Campbell for the role. Friedman mentioned, "I have heard some early rumors that the Canucks may have some interest in Jessica Campbell... I’ve heard the Kraken have interest in [Canucks GM] Patrik Allvin, and I have heard the Canucks have interest in Campbell." He added, "Who knows where it goes, but I’ve heard that’s one of the names on their radar."

Emily Kaplan from ESPN also noted that Campbell has garnered interest from several NHL teams. However, the prospect of becoming a head coach, even at the minor league level, could present a significant opportunity for her career, potentially paving the way for a future role in the NHL.

At just 33 years old, Campbell has a solid track record in the AHL, where she previously led the Coachella Valley team to the Calder Cup Finals. Her expertise in managing the power play and mentoring forwards has drawn accolades, particularly for her work with Tye Kartye, who she coached to become the AHL Rookie of the Year in 2023. Kartye is now making his mark with the New York Rangers.

Campbell's coaching experience extends internationally, having served as an assistant coach with the Nurnberg Ice Tigers in Germany and with Germany's men's national team at the World Championship. This diverse background further enhances her appeal as a candidate for coaching roles in North America.