PRINCETON, N.J. – Senior midfielder David Najem has been honored as the co-Ivy League Player of the Year, as announced by the conference office Monday afternoon.

Columbia is in the midst of a three-game win streak and Najem has been integral to that success. The Lions knocked off Manhattan, 3-0, and Northeastern, 2-1, last week, with Najem scoring in each game and providing an assist against the Jaspers.

On Wednesday, Sep. 18 at home against Manhattan, Najem set up the first goal by Rhys Williams with a slick pass that split the Jaspers’ defense and then followed with a tally of his own. Against Northeastern on Saturday, Sep. 21, Najem opened the scoring with a chip shot over the keeper.

Najem has started his final season at Columbia fashion in historic fashion. The Clifton, N.J. native has racked up nine points through the first five games, tying his season-best total he set as a first-year when he was named honorable mention All-Ivy League. His four goals this season have already eclipsed his season-best mark of three that he also set his rookie season.

Najem is the first Columbia player to receive Ivy League Player of the Week honors since Ronnie Shaban on Nov. 7, 2011.

The Lions will look to continue their success Wednesday when LIU Brooklyn visits the Columbia Soccer Stadium for a 7 p.m. match.

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