Dancing with the Former Hockey Player, Sean Avery

(Photo: @iamseanavery)

Despite not being on an active roster, hockey fans near and far know a little, or a lot, about former New York Ranger, Sean Avery. Now, the rest of the non-hockey loving contingent in America may know him too, as he trades skates for dance shoes. Avery will be partnered with professional dancer Karina Smirnoff for the 18th season of the popular show Dancing with the Stars.

The move to dancing contestant comes as no surprise—the 33-year-old Canadian has made headlines throughout his career—which included an internship at Vogue magazine.

How far Avery makes it, will be up to the judges. This season’s class of participants is strewn with impressive athletic talent, most notably Olympic gold medalist ice dancers Meryl Davis and Charlie White, Paralympic snowboarder Amy Purdy, and swimmer Diana Nyad.

Avery isn’t the only contestant with a link to hockey, former Full House actress Candace Cameron Bure is married to former NHLer Valeri Bure, younger brother of NHL Hall of Famer, Pavel Bure.

This season should prove enjoyable for fans old and new. One thing is for certain, if the dance moves don’t work out, Avery could throw a few cross-checks to his opponents backstage.

The 18th season will premiere on ABC, March 17th.