The 2007 Scripps Howard National Spelling Bee crowns a new champ Thursday as a national TV audience beholds its finest phonetic savants.
Last year, the winner nailed the word “Ursprache” (a proto-language), not to be confused with the word “Urlacher” (a Pro Bowl linebacker). And in that spirit, we present the Chicago Sports Spelling Bee — some of the trickiest names, past and present, from Chicago sports.
Accompanying each name are some clues typically afforded the National Spelling Bee contestants — or, at least, a reasonable facsimile of those clues.
A.J. Pierzynski
Definition: A crouched figure whose cleated feet have impeccable aim.
Language of origin: Annoyish
Jerry Dybzinski
Definition: Obscure White Sox middle-infielder prone to critical base-running blunders.
Language of origin: from the early Greek for “heavy on the consonants”
Andres Nocioni
Definition: Hard-nosed creature full of energy yet prone to astonishment at referees’ calls.
Languages of origin: Incredulese, Bewilderish
Mike Krzyzewski
Definition: Native to Chicago who pursues world domination at private university.
Languages of origin: Polish; late Condescendese
Mark Buehrle
Definition: Efficient creature that relies on finesse and accuracy for his work.
Language of origin: from the Latin, negotiatus contractus extensionus
Brendon Ayanbadejo
Definition: Linebacker primarily known for special-teams exploits.
Language of origin: Loviese
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ON TV
ESPN Radio personalities Mike Golic and Mike Greenberg will be “special commentators” for the 2007 bee final from 7 to 9 p.m. Thursday on ABC. Robin Roberts will be the host. ESPN’s Stuart Scott will serve as a sideline reporter. ESPN covers early action from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m.
