Well, it is an idea I am introducing at the last moment. 75% of the other players have yet to choose or create an avatar because of it. For all I know, this could be met with more resistance. So, you've got time but I am hoping it can be arranged.
You could always just save a copy of the avatar and then upload it to Photobucket or an image site like it to create a more permanent link to it. In any case, don't rush it until you are sure that it will work. If you do create a link to it in a photobucket account, I can test that link for my avatar and make sure it displays the ClexYoshi picture before you change anything on your end.