By Kalle Oakes,Staff Writer

LEWISTON – It was NCAA Division I recruiting made easy.

The University of Maine wanted Laura Martel, and the admiration was mutual. Lewiston High School’s soccer All-American signed a national letter of intent Tuesday and accepted a partial scholarship to play for the Black Bears.

“They’ve been watching me since junior year,” Martel said. “I didn’t really want to go anywhere else.”

Martel was the only representative from her home state on the NSCAA/Adidas High School All-American team. She accepted the award at a banquet Jan. 21 in Philadelphia.

Lewiston presented Martel with her framed All-America certificate at halftime of a boys’ basketball game Tuesday night.

“It never would have happened without the team,” Martel said. “There were a lot of girls who graduated before this year that were part of this.”

Martel shattered Lewiston records for career goals (86) and assists (44).

In addition to Sun Journal Player of the Year honors, Martel wrapped up her senior year with her fourth consecutive all-conference recognition and third straight all-Eastern Maine designation.

Women’s soccer at Maine is the midst of its greatest prolonged success ever while showcasing a wealth of homegrown talent. On last year’s roster, 11 of 23 players were Maine natives. Martel is one of at least four in-state recruits headed to Orono in the fall.

Maine went 12-6-1 last year and reached the America East championship game for the third straight season, losing 2-1 to Boston University.

“They’ve definitely improved over the years,” Martel said, “and starting next year they’re adding Notre Dame and UConn to the schedule.

“It should be a great experience. I’ll be glad to represent my home state, and I’m happy my family will be able to watch me play.”