Courtney Birchard-Kessel, head coach of the Boston Fleet, has a multifaceted background that extends beyond her well-known achievements in women’s ice hockey. Here are some lesser-known facts about her:
- Dual-Position Player: During her playing career, Birchard-Kessel showcased exceptional versatility by excelling both as a defenseman and a forward, a rare accomplishment at elite levels of hockey.
- International Coaching Experience: Beyond her North American coaching roles, she expanded her horizons internationally by playing for Linköping HC in Sweden’s top women’s league and ICE Dream Košice in Slovakia, gaining valuable global insights.
- Family Ties to Hockey Royalty: Through her marriage to Blake Kessel, Birchard-Kessel is connected to a prominent hockey family. Her brother-in-law, Phil Kessel, is a renowned NHL player, and her sister-in-law, Amanda Kessel, is a distinguished member of the U.S. women’s national hockey team.
- Early Coaching Roles: Before ascending to high-profile coaching positions, she honed her coaching skills at grassroots levels, serving as the head coach at Havergal College in Toronto and as an assistant coach with the Oakville Hornets, demonstrating her commitment to developing young talent.
- Academic Achievements: She is an alumna of the University of New Hampshire, where she not only excelled on the ice but also prioritized her education, balancing the demands of being a student-athlete.
These lesser-known aspects of Birchard-Kessel’s career highlight her diverse experiences and deep-rooted connections within the hockey community, underscoring the breadth of her contributions to the sport.
