SACO — Thornton Academy’s Simon Trcka established himself as one of Maine’s premiere high school soccer players over the last two seasons.

Because of this success, Trcka signed his National Letter of Intent to play for Division II Assumption College in Worcester, Massachusetts on Thursday afternoon.

Despite missing a significant portion of last season due to injury, Trcka still managed to score 15 goals, leading the highflying TA offensive attack into the playoffs.

Trcka has been widely recognized for his achievements during the course of his TA career, including being named to the Maine Soccer Coach’s Association’s regional team for the last two years, as well as being named the offensive player of the year.

Originally from the Czechoslovakia, Trcka’s goal was to succeed on the field and in the classroom. Trcka accomplished those goals, impressing the TA community with his efforts over the past two years.

Trcka maintained a high grade point average, while taking multiple honors and AP courses during his time at TA.

TA Athletic Administrator Gary Stevens has been pleased with Trcka’s impact on the school.

“Simon has been here for two years and has certainly made his mark on our school and our soccer team. He is certainly one of the most dynamic players in the history of our program,” said Stevens.

More than anything, Stevens is proud of Trcka’s accomplishments.

“We are very proud of Simon and all of his accomplishments. We wish him well in the next phase in his academic life and soccer career at Assumption college,” said Stevens.

TA coach Andrew Carlson praised Trcka’s work ethic – not only on the field, but in the classroom as well.

“Assumption’s gains are definitely our losses. Not only on the soccer field, but academically. Simon came here two years ago to improve his academic scholarship. He has worked very hard in the classroom to achieve the highest merits,” said Carlson. “He has also done the same on the soccer field. With the combination of his accomplishments on the field and his academic achievements, he epitomizes the idea of a scholar-athlete.”

Assumption and the University of New Hampshire were on the top of Trcka’s list, but after visiting the campus and meeting the team, Assumption was his ultimate choice.

“I went on the official visit and had two practices with the team. I really liked the team and the campus was really nice,” said Trcka.

Moving forward, Trcka views college soccer as a bigger challenge, but is confident he will succeed at the next level.

“College soccer is totally different than high school, its on a different level. I play with clubs though, so that will help,” said Trcka.

Although he is excited to move forward in his academic and athletic career, Trcka will miss the friends he made at TA.

“I am going to remember the soccer season. I’ll remember the team and playing with the guys,” said Trcka.

— Sports Staff Writer Alex Sponseller can be reached at sports@journaltribune.com or at 282-1535 ext. 323. Follow the Journal Tribune Sports Department on Twitter @JournalTsports.