The Colorado Rapids have signed forward Donavan Phillip to a two-year contract, with three additional club option periods that could extend his stay through June 30, 2030. Phillip was selected as the 62nd overall pick in the 2025 MLS SuperDraft and will occupy an international roster spot. He is expected to join the team once he receives his International Transfer Certificate (ITC) and P-1 Visa.
“We’re excited to add Donavan to our group,” said Colorado Rapids Sporting Director Fran Taylor. “He’s a dynamic attacking player with a strong competitive edge and a proven ability to impact games at critical moments. Donavan’s production, mentality and background make him a strong fit for our environment, and we’re looking forward to continuing his development at the professional level.”
Phillip, age 21, arrives after a successful collegiate career at NC State, where he won the 2025 MAC Hermann Trophy. This award is regarded as college soccer’s most prestigious individual honor and has been presented annually since 1967 based on votes from United Soccer Coaches member coaches nationwide.
“We’re really proud of the work our scouting group did to identify Donavan two seasons ago as a sophomore,” said Rapids Director of Player Personnel Brian Crookham. “Drafting him a year before he went on to win the MAC Hermann Trophy speaks to the depth of our evaluation process and our willingness to lean into the updated SuperDraft rules. As the draft pool has expanded, we’ve been intentional about using those changes to our advantage, and Donavan is a great example of that approach. He’s a high-upside player with strong physical tools, a competitive edge, and a clear trajectory, and we’re excited to now bring him into our professional environment.”
During the 2025 collegiate season, Phillip led all players in goals scored while helping NC State achieve its first appearance in the NCAA Men’s College Cup Final with a record of 16-3-4. He finished with 19 goals and two assists—the highest single-season goal total for an NC State men’s player since 1984—and set another program mark by recording 40 points in one season for the first time since 1991.
His achievements also include being named United Soccer Coaches First Team All-America and ACC Offensive Player of the Year.
Phillip was born in Castries, Saint Lucia. He attended Kiski Prep in Pennsylvania where he won two national titles. His family has deep roots in sports: his father played professional soccer in Jamaica; his uncle also played professionally and currently competes on a senior national team; his mother represented Saint Lucia in cricket, rugby, and soccer.
Recent changes in MLS SuperDraft eligibility rules have broadened opportunities for underclassmen like Phillip. The Rapids’ selection demonstrates their approach toward identifying talent within this expanded pool.
Phillip will join Colorado after finalizing visa procedures.
