Latvia upsets USA at the World Championship in first ever medal win!

What a day it is to be a hockey fan from the country of Latvia!

On Sunday, the Latvians pulled off an improbable upset when they defeated the Americans in a bronze medal game thanks to an overtime winner from former NHL defenseman Kristian Rubins. The two teams had been unable to determine a winner after 60 minutes of regulation play, but after a broken play in overtime Rubins would send both his teammates and the Latvian fans in attendance into an absolutely frenzy.

Not only was it an amazing performance on the part of the Latvians, one that earned the nation it's first ever IIHF medal, but it was also a genuine feel good moment for hockey fans who tuned in given the sheer enthusiasm from the players and fans in attendance. There was no doubting just how much this Bronze Medal game meant to the Latvians, and I found myself grateful at the opportunity to share in their enthusiasm.

Just listen to the Latvian call of the goal:

Another beautiful moment would come after the conclusion of the game, when those in attendance sang the Latvian national anthem in unison in celebration of their incredible accomplishment.

Here's to hoping they bring that same level of enthusiasm to the next major international hockey event.