Mia Hamant, a standout goalkeeper for the University of Washington’s women’s soccer team, has tragically passed away at the age of 21 after a battle with kidney cancer. The university announced her death on Thursday, leaving a deep sense of sorrow among her teammates, coaches, and the entire athletic community.
Hamant, a native of Corte Madera, California, was a rising star on the Huskies’ soccer team. During her junior year in 2024, she helped propel Washington to the semifinals of the Big Ten tournament, cementing her reputation as one of the conference’s top goalkeepers. With a remarkable single-season goals against average of 0.66, she posted the third-lowest in program history, showcasing both her skill and dedication to the sport. However, after her diagnosis with Stage 4 kidney cancer in April, Hamant was forced to sit out her senior season to undergo chemotherapy.
Despite her diagnosis, Hamant’s courage and resilience made a profound impact on those around her. Her determination and unshakable spirit inspired her teammates and coaches throughout her battle with cancer. Women’s soccer coach Nicole Van Dyke praised Hamant for her unwavering positivity, saying in a statement, “Mia was the heart of our program—someone who lifted up everyone around her with her joy, courage, and kindness. Even in the most difficult moments, she showed an unshakable spirit that inspired her teammates and coaches every single day. Mia made us all better people, and her impact will be felt in this program and in all of our lives forever.”
Hamant’s influence extended far beyond the soccer field. In the face of such a devastating illness, she remained a beacon of hope for those around her, always demonstrating grace and strength. Her journey was one of profound adversity, but it also highlighted her character and love for her team, which remained at the forefront of her mind despite her health struggles.
In October, Hamant was honored by her fellow athletes when she attended a University of Washington football game, just weeks before her passing. Huskies wide receiver Denzel Boston publicly showed support for Hamant after their 42-25 victory over No. 23 Illinois, acknowledging the challenges she faced with cancer. “Mia Hamant on our soccer team is going through tough, tough struggles with cancer,” Boston said after the game. “We’re just trying to be there to support her.”
Hamant’s perseverance did not go unnoticed. Earlier this week, the Big Ten conference awarded her the 2025 Sportsmanship Award, recognizing her for her extraordinary resilience and spirit in the face of her health battle.
“Mia embodied everything we hope for in a Husky student-athlete—perseverance, grace, and an unwavering commitment to her teammates and community,” said University of Washington athletic director Pat Chun. “Her remarkable courage through adversity and the legacy she leaves behind will forever inspire the UW family.”
Mia Hamant is survived by her parents, who, along with the entire Washington athletic community, are mourning her loss. Her life, though short, was marked by an inspiring commitment to both her sport and the people she loved. Her memory will continue to inspire all who were fortunate enough to know her.