Board of Directors Spotlight: Mason Bultje

WESTBOROUGH, MA - The USTA New England Board of Directors is made up of Officers, State Delegates, Delegates at Large, President’s Appointees, and recent past presidents. Elected every three years, the board serves as the final authority on all policy matters within the section.

Board members bring a wide range of experience across the tennis community, including players, coaches, officials, administrators, and league representatives, while also representing regions across New England.

Applications for 2027–2029 term are now open, and all interested individuals are encouraged to apply here. 

Originally from Minnesota and now based in Massachusetts, Mason Bultje joined the USTA New England Board of Directors in 2023 after previously serving on the USTA Northern Board. A lifelong player, coach and advocate, Mason has built his career around growing the game through nonprofit and community tennis organizations. He currently serves as Director of Partnerships & Programs at Sportsmen’s Tennis & Enrichment Center and also coaches MIT Women’s Tennis. 

Mason shares his tennis story below: 

Why did you decide to join the USTA New England Board?

I previously served on the USTA Northern Board of Directors before moving from Minnesota to New England in 2022. When I relocated, I knew I wanted to stay involved in tennis and immerse myself in my new community. In 2023, I applied to join the USTA New England board as a way to remain connected to tennis and contribute to the region’s tennis landscape.

How did you first get connected to tennis?

I first picked up a racquet when I was about three years old, and I’ve never looked back. Tennis has been a lifelong passion—I’ve remained a player, coach, and advocate ever since, and I know it will continue to be an important part of my life for years to come.

What is your professional background?

My entire career has been in the nonprofit tennis world. I started at InnerCity Tennis in Minneapolis, an NJTL and CTA, working in community-based youth and education programs. When I moved to Boston, I joined Sportsmen’s Tennis & Enrichment Center, another NJTL and CTA, initially focusing on fund development, raising the funds required to support the organization’s programs. Today, as Director of Partnerships & Programs, I lead the development of strategic partnerships and program initiatives that expand opportunities—particularly for middle schoolers, high school students, and developing coaches.

Since 2023, I’ve also coached college tennis—first with UMass Boston’s men’s and women’s teams, and now as an assistant coach for MIT Women’s Tennis. Coaching keeps me connected to high levels of the game and gives me an opportunity to positively impact young adults through tennis.

How has your expertise helped USTA New England achieve its mission?

I bring experience in grassroots tennis, youth development, nonprofit leadership, and diversity and inclusion work. My background allows me to understand the needs of CTAs, NJTLs, and community organizations across the section. I believe that perspective has helped further USTA New England’s mission of ‘Growing tennis to inspire healthier people and communities throughout New England.’ 

What USTA New England initiative are you most passionate about?

I’m especially passionate about chairing the Grants Committee. Over the last few years, we have refined the application, review, and decision-making processes in a truly collaborative way. This work has helped build strong relationships with leaders across New England and allowed us to better support the needs of NJTLs, CTAs, and community organizations.

What is something you're most proud to have seen accomplished as a USTA New England volunteer?

I’m proud of the year-over-year participation growth across New England, especially in communities that have historically had limited access to tennis. It’s inspiring to be part of a team committed to making tennis more accessible and reflective of the diversity of the region. Seeing that growth—and contributing to it—has been incredibly meaningful.

Why should someone consider volunteering as a board member?

Serving on the board means joining a passionate, fun, and well-connected team of people who care deeply about growing tennis and inspiring healthier communities. It’s an opportunity to give back to the game in a region with a rich tennis history and to collaborate with others who share a commitment to expanding access and impact.