The National Hockey League has witnessed a remarkable week with two significant milestones for women in coaching positions. Kori Cheverie, coach of the Professional Women’s Hockey League (PWHL), took to the bench for the Pittsburgh Penguins’ preseason game on Sunday. Following that, Jessica Campbell, an AHL coach, did the same for the Seattle Kraken on Monday. These women have marked a new era for the NHL by becoming coaches, a role previously held predominantly by men.
Kori Cheverie, who coaches the Montreal franchise in the PWHL, was invited as a guest coach for the Penguins after her involvement with the team at development and training camps. Her impact was acknowledged and celebrated when Pittsburgh coach Mike Sullivan presented her with an autographed Sidney Crosby sweater from the entire team. Cheverie expressed her gratitude and excitement, stating, “Ever since I started talking to Pittsburgh, it’s been an amazing experience, and they’ve really welcomed me with open arms.” She also highlighted the invaluable opportunity to learn during her time at the Penguins’ main camp.
Marching Up the Coaching Ladder
Jessica Campbell, a full-time assistant coach for the Coachella Valley, the AHL affiliate of the Seattle Kraken, also took her place behind the bench. Having joined the organization in 2022, she played a crucial role in their journey to the Calder Cup finals last season. Campbell’s experience extends beyond the AHL, as she has been actively involved in the Seattle training camp. Growing up in Saskatchewan, she played alongside boys before pursuing a successful four-year collegiate career at Cornell. Additionally, Campbell showcased her skills professionally and represented the Canadian national team. Now, her determination and hard work have propelled her up the coaching ladder.
The appointments of Cheverie and Campbell as coaches in the NHL bring a renewed sense of progress and inclusivity within the league. While women have previously held positions as trainers and in other supportive roles, the presence of women as coaches was a barrier yet to be conquered. With these recent breakthroughs, the NHL is sending a powerful message that talent and expertise know no gender boundaries. Both Cheverie and Campbell embody the qualities necessary for successful coaching careers, overcoming traditional stereotypes and paving the way for future generations of female coaches.
A Vision for the Future
The representation of women in coaching roles within professional sports has historically been limited, but Cheverie and Campbell’s achievements illustrate a potential turning point. Their accomplishments open the door for more opportunities for women to pursue coaching careers in the NHL and inspire young girls to dream big. As the league continues to evolve, it is crucial to nurture and support diverse talent, ensuring that women are given equal consideration and opportunities within the coaching ranks.
The National Hockey League has recently witnessed a significant shift as women break barriers and make history as coaches. Kori Cheverie and Jessica Campbell have showcased their talent, determination, and dedication, proving that gender should never be a criterion for success in coaching roles. Their achievements mark a crucial chapter in the league’s narrative, one that embraces progress, inclusivity, and the limitless potential of female coaches. The NHL’s commitment to diversity and equality ensures that the future is bright for aspiring female coaches, instilling a new sense of hope and possibility within the world of professional hockey.
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