NHL's First Female Coach At The Center of Recent Controversy

Is Jessica Campbell The First Female Coach in the NHL?

On Monday, the Seattle Kraken grabbed headlines by extending an invitation to Jessica Campbell, the assistant coach of the Coachella Valley Firebirds, to join their bench for a preseason clash against the Calgary Flames. This news swiftly circulated on social media, with many heralding Campbell as the "first female coach" in the NHL.





Jessica Campbell's remarkable achievements are indeed praiseworthy. Currently in her second season with the Coachella Valley team, she became a trailblazer in July 2022 by becoming the first female assistant coach in the AHL, working under the guidance of Dan Bylsma. In their debut season, with Campbell's invaluable contributions, the Firebirds managed to reach the Calder Cup Finals, though they narrowly succumbed to the Hershey Bears in a thrilling Game Seven overtime showdown. Campbell's groundbreaking influence extends beyond the AHL, as she etched her name in history as the inaugural female assistant coach for Team Germany at the Men's World Championships in 2022.

Female Trailblazers in The NHL Who May Have That Title

However, the title of "first female NHL coach" was a subject of contention. Just days prior to Campbell's debut with the Kraken, Kori Cheverie was spotted on the Pittsburgh Penguins' bench, serving as a guest instructor during their development and training camps. Cheverie is poised to further her coaching journey as the head coach for the PWHL Montreal team.

Furthermore, several other remarkable women have already left their mark within the NHL. Barbara Williams, for instance, assumed the role of Power Skating Coach for the New York Islanders as far back as 1977. Aisha Visram and Jodi van Rees have made significant contributions as trainers for the Los Angeles Kings and Montreal Canadiens, respectively. In addition, the Boston Bruins recently added Danielle Marmer to their roster, entrusting her with a dual role as Player Development and Scouting Assistant. These exceptional trailblazers collectively exemplify the growing presence and influence of women within the realm of professional hockey.

As Read On Hockey Patrol - "Controversy Emerges Regarding NHL Alleged First Female Coach"