If imitation is the sincerest form of flattery, Mike Ditka should feel downright adored by Windy Citizens.
As few Chicago sports figures are as beloved as "Da Coach," the Double Door is hosting a Ditka Look-Alike contest on Sunday. The following day, the Bears will retire Ditka's No. 89 jersey at halftime when they face the Dallas Cowboys.
According to the event's leader, Jeff Hughes, amateurs need not apply.
"We're hoping for originality. We aren't discouraging people from performing," Hughes told DNAinfo Chicago. "We want [former Bears linebacker] Otis Wilson to see you and somehow be taken back to his locker room in 1985 and 1986 and remember how being in the same room as Mike Ditka really was."
The event, which benefits the Otis Wilson Charitable Association, will be judged by Wilson, Bears legend James “Big Cat” Williams, according to NBC Chicago.
Competition is already shaping up to be fierce, with professional Ditka impersonator Don "Da Coach" Fueling confirming to DNAinfo he plans to enter. "I think the odds are in my favor," said Feuling.
This past weekend, Ditka love was out in full-force for the Ditka Dash 5K race at Soldier Field. Da Coach himself was on hand to marshall the event:
The Mike Ditka Look-Alike Contest is Dec. 8 at the Double Door, 1551 N. Damen Ave., 7 p.m. doors. $10 to enter with proceeds benefiting the Otis Wilson Charitable Association.
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