When it comes to attending prom, the third time should be the charm for ESPN's Michelle Beadle.

The 38-year-old Beadle, who recently returned to ESPN following a short stint at NBC, will be accompanying teenager Jack Jablonksi to prom this spring at Benilde-St. Margaret’s School in St. Louis Park, Minn. Jablonksi, a former hockey player, was paralyzed during a game in 2011 when he was checked head first into the boards.

Beadle says she had two forgettable proms in high school -- and surely this one will be the most meaningful.

Jablonski, who co-hosts a weekly radio program called "Hockey Night in Minnesota" (see below), invited Beadle to be his guest on the show this week. A few minutes into the interview, which can be heard here, Jablonksi invites Beadle to prom. Beadle immediately accepts.


"Seriously, I'd love it," Beadle said. "Can I wear an '80s dress to the prom?”

Beadle told Larry Brown Sports that she's gotten to know Jablonksi over Twitter and is inspired by his story.

"I know that he's a badass and someone I look up to immensely," Beadle said. “I was shocked when he asked today. And I adore him for doing it live on the radio. I’m honored to squeeze my 38 year old behind into a formal gown for a great night!"

While it doesn't appear that Jablonski and Beadle have ever met in person, judging by their easy rapport on Twitter it seems like they're in for a fun night.