PICKERING -- For all of her accomplishments, it's hard to believe Diarra Simmons is just 15 years old.
In the last few months, Simmons has won league, provincial and national championships with the Pickering Power Green U16G team as well as competed for Trinidad and Tobago at the U17 Women's World Cup.
While training with the Ontario provincial team, Simmons was noticed by a coach who also worked with Trinidad and Tobago. Being that her parents were originally from that nation it was a perfect fit.
"Competing at the U17 World Cup this summer was an awesome experience," said Simmons. "Scoring a goal against Chile is something I will never forget."
There were many obstacles on the way to a national championship this season however. Getting past rival Newmarket in league play as well as defeating a strong Alberta team at nationals was no easy feat, said Simmons.
"We always have very tough and close matches against Newmarket. In the national championship run I thought Alberta had a very strong team also. It took a great effort from everyone to get it done."
Pickering Power coach Paul Deabreu had high praise for the young striker.
"She is a very tough and tenacious player who always seems to be in the right place at the right time. She scored very important and clutch goals for us this year and especially at nationals."
Despite a jam-packed resume full of accomplishments, Simmons still feels like she has much more to improve on.
"My main goal is to obtain a soccer scholarship and play at university. Then hopefully go on to play for the Women's national team with Trinidad and Tobago or even Canada."