By Tyler Vaughn,

OKLAHOMA CITY – Energy FC have signed defender Mike da Fonte, pending league and federation approval, Head Coach Steve Cooke announced today. The 27-year-old joins OKC after spending the 2018 season with USL Championship Western Conference Champions Phoenix Rising FC, where he made 31 appearances, scoring one goal and winning 75 percent of his tackles in 2,699 minutes of action.

Da Fonte, formerly of MLS’s Colorado Rapids, also played for USL Championship clubs Sacramento Republic FC and New York Red Bulls II. Prior to his time in the United States professional ranks, da Fonte played for Portuguese clubs S.C. Espinho and Pedras Salgadas.

“He’s had a number of good seasons with New York Red Bulls II and Sacramento Republic FC, and I know him personally from our time at Colorado Rapids”, said Cooke. “He is incredibly versatile and can play in a number of positions. Last season, people will remember him from being an anchor-type player in a very good Phoenix Rising team. He’s a fighter, he’s a warrior, he’s somebody who does his best every day and he’s somebody who wants to win championships. He brings a winning mentality to the group which we will need to reach our goals.”

Energy FC are away to Reno 1868 FC this Saturday at 8 p.m. CDT. They will return home to face Portland Timbers 2 Saturday, April 6 at 7:30 p.m. CDT at Taft Stadium. Tickets are available at energyfc.com/april6 or by calling 405.235.KICK.