IRVINE, Calif. - For this week's PacWest Conference Player of the Week the award goes to sophomore, Yassine Smiej.

Smiej has helped the Eagles men's tennis team to their hottest start in 10 years, with an overall record of 9-2. In his singles matches Smiej has a 70% win percentage this season and is on a three-game winning streak.

"Our team has competed very well this season against some very strong teams," said head coach Jonathan Sanchez. "It really has been a team effort of supporting one another and pushing each other to keep getting better and improving every day. There is a lot of season left so it's important to stay focused and keep working hard but we will certainly take some time to enjoy these outstanding individual and team achievements."

"I believe that our hot start is mainly due to our hard work in practice, the discipline off and on the court and especially because of our team bonding," said Smiej.

The Morocco native, won all three of his singles matches in Northern California on the week as well as a 1-1 finish in doubles competition. Smiej's leadership has been vital in the success of the CUI squad throughout this season. His dedication and hardwork to his craft has paid off not only this season but last season as well. Smiej is only in his second season, but he has already accomplished All-PacWest Honors earning the Second Team accolade last season as a true freshman.

"I am very proud of Yassine and his performance this past week," said Sanchez. "He always plays with so much heart and tenacity, which has been so important to his success. His professionalism on and off the court has been an inspiration to the team and shows he is really becoming a leader."

"This is an honor to me and it represents a lot especially after all the sacrifices that I went through during and after my knee surgery," said Smiej. "But it's also the fruit of a team work because without my teammates I wouldn't have been able to get all that energy to win those important matches. It's only the beginning of many!"

The Green and Gold will take on the #7 ranked UC San Diego men's tennis team on Friday, Mar. 13th at 2:00 p.m. at the Tennis Club at Newport Beach.

For the full CUI men's tennis schedule, click here: