Campbell hiring by Kraken will open doors for women, Flyers guest coach says
According to Morey, who has had 13 years of experience on the Princeton bench, our profession is currently experiencing growth.
© Getty Images
VOORHEES, N.J. — Cara Morey is no stranger to coaching high-level men’s hockey players through her guest coaching stint at Philadelphia Flyers development camp the past three seasons.
On Wednesday, Jessica Campbell made history by becoming the first woman to be hired as an NHL assistant coach for the Seattle Kraken. This groundbreaking achievement has not only shattered glass ceilings but has also paved the way for women’s coaches in hockey at every level. Campbell had previously served as an assistant coach under Dan Bylsma at Coachella Valley of the American Hockey League for the past two seasons.
Morey, who is entering her 14th season as coach of the women’s hockey team at Princeton University, expressed her admiration for the progress made in women’s sports. She believes it is fantastic, particularly for women, that more opportunities are becoming available. Morey commended the individual who succeeded and acknowledged the hard work and support she received. Witnessing the opening of more doors in her profession is truly inspiring for her. She noted the growth from U.S. college hockey to Canadian college hockey, and now the establishment of the Professional Women’s Hockey League. More doors seem to be opening, expanding the possibilities within her field, which she finds incredibly exciting.
© Getty Images
Campbell expressed on Wednesday that while she appreciates being the first, she does not wish to be the sole individual in her position. Morey possesses the ability to walk the same path as her, as evidenced by her experience working with Flyers prospects, which has granted her a distinctive perspective unlike many others in her field.
Having had the opportunity to interact with the Philadelphia coaching staff, including engaging in casual conversations with coach John Tortorella, she now finds utmost joy in being considered equal to the other Flyers development coaches, be it during on-ice activities or in meetings.
She expressed, “I anticipate my communication style to diverge from that of many men. I may employ unique vocabulary and present information through various voices and teaching methods, which I believe is highly valued by them.”
I constantly find myself surprised for some reason, as every year they approach me with questions or yell across the ice, asking for guidance on drills. It seems that for them, this has become a usual occurrence.
© Getty Images
Before joining Princeton, Morey had a three-season tenure as a defenseman for Montreal and Brampton in the National Women’s Hockey League from 2001 to 2004.
Despite her enjoyment of her job, the 45-year-old woman has come to realize that there exists an opportunity to reach the pinnacle of her profession.
She expressed that our mindset remains fixed for a period of time, but gradually evolves with age. She mentioned her deep affection for her current occupation and location, emphasizing that it is presently the most ideal situation for her.
However, when considering the future, it is impossible to predict what may happen. The coaching field is constantly evolving. I have already spent 13 or 14 years in this profession, which is quite lengthy for a coach. I am content with my current position, but as I continue in this role, I am increasingly aware that coaching is something I could pursue further.
