Athletic Baby Names

Scottish and Irish Mac and Mc surnames are definitely up for consideration, and this one has sports cred via its link to tennis champ John. It was one of the fastest-rising names on Nameberry in early 2018, though this hasn't translated into real-life use yet. We still think it's one of the coolest undiscovered Scottish names for boys.

With Galway and Ireland in play as names (not to mention Shannon and Kerry), there's no reason this one can't work, too.

An extreme example of the newly possible ecclesiastical brotherhood that includes Deacon and Bishop. This one might work better in the middle spot.

This unusual name belonging to three generations of Deltha Lee O'Neals, the third being a football cornerback for the New England Patriots, could equally--or better--be used for a girl.

Elaboration of Dion publicized by the football and baseball star Deion Sanders -- aka Neon Deion.

Apolo is a masculine name that serves as a variant spelling of Apollo, the Greek god of light, music, healing, and prophecy. This simplified spelling is particularly common in Spanish and Portuguese-speaking countries. The name derives from Greek origins, though its exact etymology remains debated—some connect it to the Greek 'apollymi' meaning 'to destroy,' while others link it to 'apella' meaning 'assembly.' Apolo projects strength and artistic talent, carrying the mythological associations with the sun, beauty, and athletic prowess. The name has seen modest popularity in Latin American countries and has gained some recognition through notable bearers like Olympic speed skater Apolo Ohno. Its streamlined spelling offers a more modern, accessible version of the classical name.

Most parents would prefer BRADLEY or BRADFORD to get to eternally cool nickname BRAD--unless they wanted to honor cricket legend Donald Bradman, considered the greatest batsman of all time.

Basketball legend Wilt Chamberlain (born Wilton) lends a sort of mythic quality to his name. Few have ventured to use it since it is so tied to the famed Chamberlain, but it could make an inspired middle.

A possible last-name-first name represented by former first baseman Chris Sabo.

In keeping with other short names like PO/POE and BO, Coe is a surname that could easily move into first place. It has a sports hero factor as well, in Olympic runner Sebastian Coe--who later became a Member of Parliament.

The name of the Brazilian-born soccer great (whose name at birth was Edson) is popular in France and could make it here too.

Could be used as a hero tribute by tennis fans to honor Australian champ Rod, considered by many to be the greatest male player of all time.