When Jessica Campbell stepped onto the ice as an assistant coach for the Seattle Kraken two years ago, she made history as the first female coach in NHL history. Now, after navigating a coaching change and two challenging seasons, Campbell is moving on to new opportunities.

The Kraken announced Thursday that Campbell, whose contract is expiring, has expressed a desire to "explore other coaching roles across the league." In a statement from Seattle's executive vice president and general manager Jason Botterill, the organization fully supports her next chapter.

"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," Botterill said. "We respect her decision and believe strongly in her as a coach in this league."

Campbell's journey with the Kraken organization began in 2023, when she joined the Coachella Valley Firebirds, Seattle's AHL affiliate, as an assistant under head coach Dan Bylsma. When Bylsma was promoted to lead the Kraken in 2024 following Dave Hakstol's dismissal, he brought Campbell with him—a testament to her growing reputation as a coach who could connect with players and elevate their game.

But the NHL is a results-driven league, and Bylsma lasted just one season before being let go last spring. Lane Lambert took over as head coach and retained Campbell, but the Kraken continued to struggle. Seattle finished the 2025-26 season at 34-37-11, marking their third straight losing campaign. Despite being within striking distance of a playoff spot in a weak Pacific Division down the stretch, the team faltered when it mattered most.

Since joining the league as an expansion franchise in 2021, the Kraken have made the playoffs only once. For Campbell, the decision to move on comes as she looks to build on her groundbreaking career and find a new challenge elsewhere in the league.