The recent appointment of Jessica Campbell as the first female assistant coach in the NHL has sparked inspiration among young female hockey players, including members of the Weyburn Gold Wings. Campbell, who is now coaching with the Seattle Kraken, has made history not just for herself but for aspiring athletes everywhere.
Gold Wings player Amy Swayze reflected on Campbell’s impact: “Even just seeing a female coach on the bench at such a high level, and even drawing up plays, coaching her first game ever as an NHL coach, it's super inspiring to see. Young girls can recognize how far they can go in the sport, and it's just such a big milestone. It makes you want to do it, too.”
Nola Exner added to the conversation, noting the broader implications of Campbell’s achievement: “With the BWHL also starting up, it's really cool to see how far things are going and how everyone’s respecting her. Just seeing that coach on the bench is so inspiring for young ones and for us as well, showing that we can finally get to the next level.”
Maicy Groenewegen emphasized Campbell's message to young female athletes: “Just to see her on the bench is really inspiring. It can show young girls that the farthest you can go is how far you want to make it, so you have to push yourself to be there and work hard every day.”
Halle Prada expressed her admiration, stating, “I just think it's so surreal to see Jessica Campbell behind the Seattle Kraken bench. It's such an amazing opportunity for her. It’s inspiring for all youth across the world and in all sports, not just hockey. It shows that women can do anything, and we can push to go as far as we can.”
Kaya Shields, who hails from a small town near Campbell’s hometown, felt a personal connection: “I think it's a really big step for women's hockey. It’s super inspiring for young girls and girls my age to watch and see how far we can go in this sport. It’s a super big impact, especially seeing someone from a small community like that grow.”
Jessica Campbell's role as the first female assistant coach in the NHL isn’t just a big moment for women in hockey; it highlights our progress in sports. Players like those on the Gold Wings look up to her and see they can also chase their dreams.