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Council unanimously names Ryan Park cross-country course for coach Paul Tetrault
Summary
Following a public hearing, the council voted unanimously Nov. 18 to name the cross-country course at Ryan Park the Paul Tetrault Trail after a petition and presentation describing Tetrault’s 42 years coaching, national recognition in disabled sports, and local contributions; a boosters club will fund a commemorative plaque.
The North Kingstown Town Council unanimously approved naming the cross-country course at Ryan Park the Paul Tetrault Trail after a public hearing and a citizen presentation on Nov. 18.
Michael McGovern, who identified himself as a 46‑year resident, presented the petition and described coach Paul Tetrault’s 42-year coaching tenure, national recognition for work in disabled sports and wheelchair racing, inductions into the North Kingstown High School and Rhode Island Track & Field Halls of Fame, and long-term stewardship of the course. McGovern said the North Kingstown boosters club, the athletic department, and the leisure services activity committee support the proposal and that the boosters will fund the trail plaque.
Councilors briefly questioned the trail’s length. Presenters estimated segments ranging from about 1.5 to 2.5 miles for various loops; the presenters emphasized the course’s history as a home venue for the high school and the ongoing maintenance work performed by the team. Following the presentation, a councilor moved and the council voted to open and close the public hearing and then to approve the renaming by voice vote.
Coach Tetrault spoke briefly and thanked the council and community. The council did not attach conditions to the naming and said the plaque will be funded by private donations as described in the petition.
