COMMERCE CITY, Colo. (Thursday, February 4, 2016) – Colorado Rapids announced today that the club has signed 25-year-old defender Mekeil Williams from Guatemalan side Antigua GFC. Williams will be added to the roster pending his medical and upon receipt of his International Transfer Certificate (ITC) and his P1 Visa.

“Mekeil is a player we have been tracking since Trinidad and Tobago’s successful run in the Gold Cup last year,” said Paul Bravo, Technical Director and VP of Soccer Operations. “So, when there was an opportunity, we decided to execute a permanent transfer with his club.

“Mekeil is starting to establish himself at international level. He will bring a versatility, athleticism and strong mentality to our backline. We are delighted to welcome him to our club."

Born in Port of Spain, Williams has appeared in 20 matches across all competitions for Antigua GFC, adding one goal in 1,524 minutes.

Williams began his professional career with Ma Pau SC of the TT Pro League in 2009 prior to signing with W Connection FC in 2011. Williams then joined Polish club Pogoń Szczecin on a five-month loan, appearing in nine matches and registering one goal. In 2012, he signed with FC Fyn of Denmark, seeing action in eight matches for the club. Williams returned to W Connection in 2013 and played in the Trinidad first division until his move to Antigua GFC last summer.

At the international level, Williams has represented Trinidad and Tobago 11 times and scored his only goal in his senior debut in a 3-2 loss against Finland on January 22, 2012. Williams appeared in three matches for the Soca Warriors in last year’s CONCACAF Gold Cup, including the quarterfinal loss against Panama.

The Rapids season starts on Sunday, March 6 at 1 p.m. MT on the road against San Jose Earthquakes, with the Home Opener at Dick's Sporting Goods Park against LA Galaxy on Saturday, March 12 at 5 p.m. MT. For more information or to purchase season tickets, click HERE or call 303-825-GOAL.

Transaction: Colorado Rapids (MLS) - Rapids sign defender Mekeil Williams as a Discovery Signing from Antigua GFC

Full Name: Mekeil Williams

Height: 6' 1”

Birth Date: July 24, 1990

Birthplace: Port of Spain, Trinidad and Tobago

Previous Club: Antigua GFC

Twitter: @MekeilWilliams