DIXFIELD – Matt Chamberlin is quite comfortable in his new role as the No. 1 singles player for Dirigo High School.

The sophomore has challenged for and won three of four matches in the No. 1 slot. Chamberlin is pleased with his play, but he knows the season is far from over.

Chamberlin started at No. 2 singles last year as a lanky freshman who competed against upperclassmen. He began playing tennis in the second grade where he developed experience and confidence that carries over to this day.

“The step up to first singles hasn’t been that bad,” Chamberlin said. “A lot of the top players last year were seniors, so this spring I’m playing against some kids my own age. Even now, I don’t think it’s the (physical) skills of a person is the most important. There needs to be a balance, and that’s where you have to be prepared mentally. I realize there’s plenty to learn in tennis, and last year I wasn’t as mature.”

Chamberlin grew up around the courts because he’d tag along with his father, Art, who is the longtime girls’ tennis coach at Dirigo. The chance to play regularly has been rewarding for the younger Chamberlin because he truly enjoys the sport.

“It really has helped having Dad involved in the sport,” Chamberlin said. “I’d go to all his practices and meets and I’d play any chance I got. When we returned home, he is always there to answer questions or offer suggestions.”

Chamberlin has also put in the extra time necessary to fine tune his craft. This has included going to separate summer camps held by Winthrop coach Wilbur Shardlow and his father. He played all winter indoors in Augusta and he also played in a summer league comprised of Augusta talent.

“His experience last year is a benefit to his game,” Dirigo boys’ coach Bruce Thompson said. “Art’s presence and knowledge of the game as well as his and Ann’s (Matt’s mother) flexibility to offer Matt experience in tennis beyond his school has made a tremendous difference in Matt’s ability and talent. Matt started at a very early age and has had an advantage that very few children get, dedicated parents that are willing to give up time in their busy schedule to improve an already promising future.”

Chamberlin’s biggest obstacle has been an eagerness to win every point by charging the net. These aggressive tactics can leave him out of position to return opponents’ shots.

“I like being aggressive,” Chamberlin said. “It does get me in trouble, so I know that I need to be more patient and cut down on (unforced) errors. I like to set up my shots, so location is the key. If I return a shot in the right area, then I’ll charge the net. If not, I need to stay back.”

Thompson knew Chamberlin had the potential even before the sophomore began playing the sport at the high school level.

“When I saw Matt play his eight-grade year, I knew then that he could give any of my top singles a good match,” Thompson said. “He had the strokes then but lacked experience. Matt is a very aggressive player and hits the ball hard with excellent strokes and likes to use topspin. His only fault may be that he may lack patience to wait for an opportunity to hit a winner. He tries to hit winners on every stroke.”

Chamberlin isn’t overly concerned with what transpires in the future because he simply enjoys competing, but the upcoming regional qualifier for the state singles tournament will provide a measuring stick.

“You can’t control what an opponent does or doesn’t do,” Chamberlin said. “Those guys are good down there. I made it to the second round last year, so maybe I can go to the third round and beyond this year.”