BOWLING GREEN, Ky. — Robbie Stovall loved sports, and his favorite team quickly became the Tampa Bay Rays affiliate Bowling Green Hot Rods.

Robbie loved sports, according to his father Randy Stovall, and was introduced to the Hot Rods in 2014 

"We started coming to Hot Rods games in 2014," said Randy. "We came as a test, and he loved it, and we have been season ticket holders ever since, and it was the highlight of his summer to come to the games."

Robbie's family with the cutout. (Randy Stovall)

Robbie passed away at the age of 40 due to a seizure, and Hot Rods General Manager Eric Leach figured out a way to keep his No. 1 fan at the games. 

“We were very sad to hear about Robbie's passing and obviously we went down to pay our respects," said Leach. "Then we asked the family if it was okay to have a cutout of Robbie and place it in the stands, and even though we are going back to full capacity, he is still going to be with us taking in Hot Rods action.“

It's a gesture that meant a lot to the Stovall family. 

"When Eric came and showed his respect, it meant everything to us," said Raissa Cecil, Robbie's sister. "It was obviously a moment you never want to see, but it was nice to know just how special Robbie was in the community."

With any sporting event, mascots are a big part of the game-day experience, and Leach said Robbie could spot them a mile away.

"Robbie would light up whenever he would see our mascots," said Leach. "He could see them across the ballpark and we are looking forward to honoring his legacy this season."

That's why you'll find the Hot Rods' mascot Axel's cutout sitting right next to Robbie.