Amer Lukovic Named Men’s Soccer National Player of the Year

Junior forward Amer Lukovic of the Montclair State University men’s soccer team has been named the the 2023 NCAA Division III National Player of the Year by the United Soccer Coaches organization

Lukovic is in elite company at Montclair becoming just the third person in school history to claim a National Player of the Year honor. He joins John Deutsch (baseball,1989) and Lois Fyfe (softball,1992).

“Congratulations to Amer on a remarkable season and an outstanding honor,” expressed Director of Athletics Rob Chesney. “He was unbelievable throughout a very special season for the men’s soccer program. Only the third athlete in school history, and first in the past 31 years, to receive this honor is truly a great accomplishment for Amer, his teammates and coaches. We are fortunate to have so many committed student athletes at Montclair and this recognition is a proud moment for our University.”

A three-time All-American, Lukovic put together the best offensive season in Montclair history as he led all of the NCAA in points (75), goals (34), and game-winning goals (11). He established a new school record with 75 points and 34 goals, becoming the first student-athlete in program history to score over 30 goals in a season. Lukovic is now a three-time All-Region selection and was also chosen as the 2023 NJAC Offensive Player of the Year.

“It’s an amazing feeling to achieve this award and an honor to do so while representing Montclair State University soccer,” Lukovic said. “I couldn’t have done it without my teammates.”

The Clifton, New Jersey, native recorded at least one point in all but two games this season and opened the year with goals in his first nine contests. Lukovic scored twice in the season-opening win against NYU before bagging a hat trick in just nine minutes against Hunter College. Midway through the year, he scored twice in wins over Alvernia, New Jersey City University, Stockton University and Ramapo College before scoring twice with an assist in the victory over William Paterson University at Red Bull Arena.

In the NCAA Tournament, Lukovic tallied six goals in three games. He scored twice in the first round victory over Elmira before netting a hat rick in the second round, double-overtime win over Christopher Newport University. In the CNU win, the junior scored twice in the second overtime, propelling the Red Hawks to victory. He capped off the season with the game-tying marker against Connecticut College and helped the team force overtime in the Sectional Semifinal.

“It was a pleasure to coach this team this year,” said Head Coach Todd Tumelty. “A bunch of hard-working players who I have watched mature over the past three seasons. When you have all of that, and then Amer has the season he had, it can make for something special. Congrats to Amer for being named the player of the year in all of DIII men’s soccer. It is a tremendous honor and another great accomplishment for the Montclair State University community.”

For more information on Montclair Athletics, visit montclairathletics.com.