July 19, 2025 – A Night I’ll Never Forget
Anyone who knows me knows how much I love singing and being part of my Erie community. But nothing could have prepared me for how incredible it felt to sing the Star-Spangled Banner for a record-breaking crowd at UPMC Park—the night the Erie SeaWolves turned into the Erie Moon Mammoths!
My Once-in-a-Lifetime Invitation to sing the Star-Spangled Banner for the Moon Mammoths
A few months ago, when the SeaWolves team called my father and asked if I would sing the National Anthem for a very special game, I had no idea what was coming. All we knew at the time was that it was a “big event” as we were not allowed to have details. Turns out, HBO’s John Oliver and his show, “Last Week Tonight,” helped the SeaWolves create a brand-new, OUT-OF-THIS-WORLD team identity: The Erie Moon Mammoths! (Yes, real lunar mammoths—well, as real as a mascot can get!)
Behind the Scenes with John Oliver’s Team
Before the game I walked down onto the field and had the pleasure of meeting John Oliver in person as his production staff and camera crew came filmed us talking. He asked me about my nerves, where I was from and what it meant to represent Erie on such a huge night. It all made me feel like I was really part of something important—not just to Erie, but to fans everywhere who would see the story on their show.
The Moment on the Field
When they called my name, my heart was pounding. I walked out in front of more than 7,000 people—the biggest crowd ever for the SeaWolves (7,070)! It was so loud, but then everything got quiet as I started to sing. Hearing all those voices join in near the end of the anthem gave me chills. I felt so proud to be there and sing our National Anthem, especially with all the lights, excitement, and Erie love in the air.
Lines for Mammoths, Smiles Everywhere
Afterward, the Moon Mammoths jerseys, hats, and plushies were everywhere! I even waited in line to get my own Moon Mammoths jersey (which sold out so fast—I’m glad I got one!). I had several fans approach me and my family and compliment me on the Star-Spangled Banner – it was amazing!
What This Night Means to Me
I’ve sung at games before, but nothing compares to a night when Erie, Pennsylvania, became the focus of the country. Seeing a city I have always loved so alive, filled with families, fans, and visitors, cheering for something fun and new—it made me realize how important community really is. I’ll always remember this night as the one when it felt like anything was possible for a kid who loves to sing (and maybe for a Moon Mammoth or two, too).
Thank you to the Erie SeaWolves, John Oliver, and everyone in Erie who made me feel special. And to anyone dreaming of their “anthem moment”—keep practicing, and don’t be afraid to let your voice ring out!