ST. LOUIS, Mo. – Saint Louis FC announced the signing of defender Phanuel Kavita, pending USL and U.S. Soccer Federation approval.

Kavita was born in Lubumbashi, DR Congo and moved to the United States to develop in the Real Salt Lake AZ academy. He attended Clemson University where he started in all 81 games during the 2011-2014 seasons and captained the team during his junior and senior years. He was named to the all-ACC Tournament team in 2014 as he led Clemson to win the ACC Tournament championship. Kavita signed a homegrown contract with Real Salt Lake in 2015 before joining USL-affiliate Real Monarchs SLC where he made 38 appearances and scored one goal during the 2015-2016 seasons. He then joined Puerto Rico FC in the NASL at the start of the 2017 Spring season where he made 27 appearances and scored one goal.

“Phanuel is a very athletic defender who is quick, strong, and powerful,” said Anthony Pulis, STLFC Head Coach. “He comes from a good pedigree at the Real Salt Lake Academy and he is very hungry and constantly looking to improve. I’m absolutely delighted to have signed him and look forward to the attributes he will bring to the defense.”

“I’m excited to join the club and get started right away,” said Kavita. “I’ve heard great things about the fans and I’m looking forward to exploring St. Louis and getting to know the city.”