I’m About to Sing the National Anthem at the Portland Sea Dogs Game, and I’m Already Panicking

This entire situation is my fault. 

About a month ago, my co-host, Chris Sedenka, and I were talking about the Portland Sea Dogs on the radio when I casually suggested we slide into Slugger’s DMs and volunteer to sing the National Anthem.

You know, like normal adults do. Also, I was half-kidding.  

Chris and I both sing, so it felt like a harmless idea, and I was completely doubtful they would even look in our direction. I even made a dramatic Instagram video pitching our services to them.

The Sea Dogs commented with a simple eye ball emoji. You know the one where their eyes are side-eyeing at you. That should have been my warning, guys.

WATCH THAT VIDEO HERE

Instead, before we knew it, Slugger himself burst into our studio and officially invited us to sing the National Anthem at Hadlock Field on June 16, 2026. And he brought biscuits.  

It’s exciting, but it's also the kind of excitement that immediately turns into hard panic when you realize thousands of people will be listening. Thousands. The Sea Dog stadium can fit up to 7,368 spectators. 

WATCH SLUGGER BUSTING INTO THE STUDIO HERE

To be fair, I’ve been singing my entire life. I’ve sung the National Anthem before. But that was years ago, back when my biggest responsibility was graduating high school.

At 40, singing feels a little different.

How a Joke Turned Into Singing at Hadlock Field

Lizzy Snyder

Back then, I walked up to a microphone thinking, “This’ll be fun.” Now I walk up thinking, “What if I suddenly forget every word to AMERICA?” Also, we’ve been so busy that finding time to practice has been challenging.

By “challenging,” I mean we’ve practiced three times. I know. 

The good news? We’ve had help. Country artist and Gillette Stadium anthem regular April Cushman, WGME's Jeff Peterson, and American Idol finalist Julia Gagnon have all joined us on air to offer professional advice.

The bad news? Every piece of professional advice has been a helpful reminder that people will absolutely notice if we suck.

And yes, I fully intend to hit that high note by belting, fully.

In my head, it sounds powerful. In my head.

In reality, there’s a non-zero chance it comes out sounding like Roseanne Barr. The truth is, I am panicking.

My family, work colleagues, friends, and listeners will be there. If I had to measure my anxiety level, it would be at NO.

Read More: What To Expect At Pride Portland This Year

The coolest part is that this happens to be the Lewiston-Auburn night game, making it extra special for a girl who grew up and still lives in Lewiston. 

So if you’re at Hadlock Field Tuesday, June 16th, please be kind.

Bring the kids, it's a great way to celebrate the end of the school year by taking in a good old Maine balll game.

If we nail it, cheer loudly; if you don't, cheer louder.