An epidemic of embarrassed stuttering, smirking and blushing took over the hockey airwaves across North America Tuesday, as male sportscasters were forced to pronounce the name of Grant Clitsome following an excellent NHL debut for the Columbus Blue Jackets.

The unfortunately named Clitsome had two assists in his first NHL game Tuesday night, a 4-3 Blue Jackets loss to the Vancouver Canucks, enticing dozens of sports personalities to attempt to say his name with maturity.  Not surprisingly, most of the male broadcasters failed.

“Who knew Clitsome would be so big for the Blue Jackets?” broadcaster Jeff Rimer said during the third period of the Jackets telecast Tuesday.

The seemingly innocent comment was spoiled moments later as analyst Bill Davidge sputtered with laughter.

“That’s what she said!” he bellowed.

The boyish humor continued as reporters conducted post game interviews with Antoine Vermette, whose twentieth goal of the year was set up by Clitsome.

“How did you feel about Grant, uh, heh, heh, you know the new guy’s play tonight?” asked Vancouver Sun cub reporter Johnny Davis.

“Oh yeah, Clitty had a huge game for us,” Vermette responded.

“Oh man,” David said, doubling over with laughter. “I can’t, I just can’t do this, I’m sorry.”

The scourge of sexual silliness later turned violent when ESPN producer Alex Fredricks, prepping highlights of the game for Sportscenter, made a comment to his co-worker Monica Goodwin after watching Clitsome facewash a Canuck.

“Huh Huh, that Clitsome guy is really sensitive isn’t he?”

Goodwin was later charged with assault for stabbing Fredricks in the hand with a pencil.

Clitsome said he’s used to the ribbing, and said he doesn’t plan to let it get in the way of his success at the NHL level.

“Look at that race car driver, Dick Trickle,” Clitsome said. “That guy had plenty of success and had one of the worst names in history.”

Heh, Heh. He said dick trickle.