REAL AMERICANS

Elizabeth Hughes, 8, made her debut singing the national anthem at an AHL Norfolk Admirals (the Tampa Bay Lightning's affiliate) game against the Connecticut Whale (New York Rangers' affiliate) last Friday night. Angelic voice, bundle of nerves ... and then after the words "gave proof," her microphone abruptly cut out. What happened next might be something we've seen before at a sporting event, but that never lacks for inspiration (and maybe a misty eye or two).

There's a moment around 1:30 into this clip that gives us hope for humanity: