spark plug

[Mullins, Bill]

OED:     2. fig. One who or that which initiates or is the driving force
behind any activity or undertaking. colloq. (chiefly U.S.).    1941 Sun
(Baltimore) 24 Aug. 15/2 Introducing Hal Sieling... He's sparkplug of
infield.


"Bob Hamilton Stars as Blocker" California | Oakland | The Oakland
Tribune | 1933-11-13  p. B-12 Col 4.
"Often the writers and the speakers speak of a team's spark plug."

"Austin Signs, Saying Cut in Pay Expected" The Washington Post; Jan 30,
1918; pg. 8 col 1.
"James P. Austin, the "spark plug" of the Browns and one of the three
playes of the club given salary cuts for the coming season, hs signed
his contract for another year at a lower figure."

"A Line 'O Type or Two" Chicago Daily Tribune; Feb 5, 1917; pg. 6 col 3.
"EVERETT, Wash., slogans:  "Everett, the Spark Plug of the West.""