Jim Mason’s star-studded career at Bartlett High is highlighted by his having the distinction of being the first recipient of the George H. Finnegan Athletic Award in 1964.

During his four years, Jim stood out in three sports. He played varsity football and baseball for three years each, receiving letters all three years, and was captain of the 1964 baseball team. He played varsity basketball for two years, receiving letters both years.

The 1964 baseball team won the Central Mass. Class B Championship, due primarily to Jim’s talent and leadership. Among his sports highlights are batting .404 in his junior year and scoring two running touchdowns in 1962 against Southbridge in the Thanksgiving Day game.

After graduation from Bartlett in 1964, Jim joined the U.S. Marine Corps. In 1966-67 he served with the First Battalion, 26th Marine Fifth Division. He is a combat veteran of the Vietnam War and was highlighted on the front cover of The New York Times and every Associated Press affiliate in the United States.

After his discharge from the Marines, Jim enjoyed a 20-year career in the Webster Men’s Softball League, playing first base for Coyle’s House of Champions. In 1968, he coached the Webster L’IL Beavers Pop Warner National Championship team, which played for the title in San Diego, California.

The Webster School Department employs Jim at present. He has a daughter Jennifer, 35, and a son Jonathan, 33.