Jake Owen will soon have his name emblazoned on a baseball field in his hometown of Vero Beach, Fla. As a sports fanatic, having a field in his namesake is a lifelong dream come true for the country star.
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Owen was surprised with the honor in December, after playing the Kevin Harvick Foundation Dinner, Auction and Concert. The singer thought he was just at the dinner to perform, so he was caught off guard when Harvick announced that the Youth Development Park in Owen's hometown would be named in his honor. Jake Owen Field is the result of a partnership between the NASCAR champion's charity and the Cal Ripken, Sr. Foundation. There are two baseball fields in the sports complex, which will open this summer.
"This sports complex is going to literally change children's lives and provide such a positive impact on our community of Vero Beach," Owen said in a statement. "I'm so proud to call Kevin Harvick a friend, and forever grateful for his continued generosity towards our foundation and many others."
Throughout his career, the country star has demonstrated his dedication to philanthropic work by his partnership with St. Jude's Children's Research Hospital. He also runs the Jake Owen Foundation, which supports local children's charities in the Vero Beach area.
This honor isn't the first time the sports industry has recognized him, either. Owen received a college scholarship to play golf at Florida State University. In addition, Golf Digest presented him the Arnie Award, recognizing golfers who give back.
This news caps off a monumental year for the singer. American Love, his fifth album, topped Billboard's Top Country Albums chart. Owen also earned his sixth number one hit with "American Country Love Song." But with Jake Owen Field opening later this year, 2017 looks to be just as promising for the country star.
