NHL’s First Full-Time Female Coach Is Out After Just 2 Seasons

Jessica Campbell. Credit: James Guillory-Imagn Images

NHL’s First Full-Time Female Coach Is Out After Just 2 Seasons

Originally posted on Total Pro Sports | By Orlando Silva | Last updated Apr 30, 2026 8:17 PM ET

Before the 2024-25 NHL season, a team made history by hiring the league’s first full-time female coach. Two years later, Jessica Campbell is reportedly seeking new challenges in the competition.

The Seattle Kraken announced on Thursday that Jessica Campbell won’t return to the team next season. She became a star at Cornell before head coach Dan Bylsma hired her before the 2024-25 campaign.

They worked together before with the Coachella Valley Firebirds of the American Hockey League. While Bylsma lost his job last summer, Campbell stayed with the team. However, that changed this year.

Why Is Jessica Campbell Leaving The Kraken?

Kraken GM Jason Botterill explained that Campbell’s contract will expire, and she expressed interest in pursuing different challenges around the league.

“We support her in this process,” Botterill said in a statement. “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.”

During her two seasons with the team, the Kraken finished seventh and sixth in the Pacific Division, respectively, failing to make the playoffs in each campaign.

She could return to the franchise, too, but it seems that she is exploring other options first. The 33-year-old also worked as an assistant coach for the German men’s national team.

This article first appeared on Total Pro Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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