Pauline Paul’s name is forever linked to the Sutton softball field
– PRESS RELEASE –
Sutton’s softball field has been officially named “Pauline-Paul Softball Field” as a tribute to the thirty years of volunteer work Pauline Paul has devoted to the game of softball for Sutton’s youth. A ceremony was held last night at Goyette-Hill Park in the presence of Pauline Paul herself, the mayor and councillors of Sutton, and Isabelle Charest, MNA for Brome-Missisquoi and Minister of Sport, Recreation and Outdoors.
Ms. Charest expressed her admiration and thanks to Ms. Paul for the influence she has had on the lives of so many children. “As a former Olympic athlete, I know how important volunteers like you are to young athletes. It is thanks to your involvement that so many can follow their dreams to the end.” She was also delighted that the field was named after a woman.
Mayor Robert Benoît also said he was particularly proud to see the field named after a woman, and a volunteer at that, when fields are usually named after famous players. “The choice of Pauline Paul’s name was unanimous! Shereally is the one who developed this sport in Sutton and accompanied some 200 Sutton youngsters aged 5 to 16. We know how important the practice of a sport is for the development of our young people, and we are very grateful to Ms. Paul.”
In fact, many of these former youngsters, now adults living in Sutton, made a point of being there to show their affection and gratitude. All were happy to share their memories of softball, which brings together Sutton’s French- and English-speaking children after school. According to their stories, Pauline Paul attended every practice, rain or shine, at first with a card on her lap to keep score, before more comfortable facilities were built on the edge of the field. For thirty years, she worked hard to organize teams, plan tournaments with neighbouring towns and find money to buy equipment. Her dedication was absolute!
Some sixty people—players, former players, family and friends—turned out in the bright sunshine to pay tribute to our revered citizen, now aged 82, who wore a magnificent smile. To conclude the event, Pauline Paul performed the ceremonial Bantam practice pitch in front of her fans. Her catcher was Fred Boucher, one of her former players and now organizer of adult softball practices. And, for the record, he did catch the ball…
Photo sources: Pauline Paul, Isabelle Capmas, Mikaël Theimer
Event organized by the Recreation, Community Life and Culture Department