BREAKING: Legendary dirt late model racing superstar Chris Simon shocked Jared Bednar and the entire Colorado avalanche community as he announced that..

In a stunning twist that no one saw coming, legendary dirt late model racing icon **Chris Simon** has left both the motorsports world and the hockey community in disbelief. Moments ago, Simon announced that he will be **joining the Colorado Avalanche organization in a full-time role as a Performance and Mental Resilience Coach**, shaking up the team just weeks before the start of the 2025-26 NHL season.

The announcement, made via a joint press conference with Avalanche head coach **Jared Bednar**, took even insiders by surprise. Bednar, visibly stunned but excited, admitted, “This wasn’t on our radar at all. But when Chris approached us with his vision, it was clear he brings something special to the table—intensity, focus, and a champion’s mindset.”

Simon, who has long been a dominant force on the dirt tracks across the Midwest and Southeast, spoke passionately about the new chapter in his life.

> “I’ve battled through some of the toughest competition in racing, and I know what it takes to stay mentally sharp under pressure. The Avalanche are a championship-caliber organization, and I’m here to bring a new perspective on grit, performance, and perseverance.”

Simon is no stranger to Colorado sports culture. Though known primarily for his racing accolades—including multiple national titles and a storied run at Eldora Speedway—he has always maintained close ties to the Denver area, frequently attending Avs games and even participating in off-season training camps with various athletes.

Sources close to the Avalanche say the decision to bring Simon on board stemmed from a desire to innovate in areas outside traditional hockey strategy. With a team stacked with talent but seeking to regain its Stanley Cup form, Simon’s high-intensity, no-excuses approach may be just the jolt the locker room needs.

Social media exploded minutes after the announcement, with fans, racers, and hockey insiders alike reacting in disbelief.

> “Chris Simon to the Avs?! Never thought I’d see the day. Dirt track meets ice rink? Let’s go!” tweeted former NASCAR driver Kenny Wallace.

The move also leaves a major question mark in the dirt late model world. With no clear successor, Simon’s sudden exit could shift the competitive landscape heading into the 2026 season.