Former Chelsea and Arsenal goalkeeper Petr Cech has joined the National Ice Hockey League team Guildford Phoenix as a goaltender.
The Czech Republic legend joined the second-tier team after retiring from football, but his newfound love doesn’t affect his role at Chelsea.
“I hope I can help this young team achieve their goals,” Cech, 37, said.
“After 20 years of professional football, this is going to be a wonderful experience for me to play the game I loved to watch and play as a kid.”
Cech will be the team’s third-choice goaltender and will only train when his Chelsea schedule allows.
“Some people seem to think I’ve changed my job. No, I didn’t.
“Luckily my job at Chelsea doesn’t stop me in my spare time from playing the game I loved as a kid and which I’ve been playing for years. While being a professional footballer I couldn’t play the game for obvious reasons. Now I can.” He tweets.
Andy Hemmings, Guildford’s head coach, said they are happy to capture Cech’s signature.
“The signing of Petr is massive for the Phoenix, he is a great guy who trains hard and I cannot wait to see him make his debut.”
Cech won four Premier League titles, five FA Cups, three League Cups, the Champions League and Europa League during his time as a footballer in England.
Other footballers to switch sports
Paolo Maldini – tennis
Tim Wiese, Stuart Tomlinson, Grant Holt – wrestling
Ivan Perisic – beach volleyball
Dudek, Santiago Canizares,
Fabien Barthez – motor racing
Leon McKenzie & Curtis Woodhouse – boxing
Gabriel Batistuta – polo
Bixente Lizarazu – Jiu-jitsu
Clive Allen – American football
Gary Lineker – cricket
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