Remembering Mia Hamant: A Brave Spirit in the Face of Adversity

Mia Hamant, a goalkeeper for the University of Washington’s women’s soccer team, who played a pivotal role in leading the Huskies to the semifinals of the Big Ten tournament during her junior year, has tragically passed away at the age of 21.

Hamant succumbed to kidney cancer on Thursday, as confirmed by the university.

In 2024, Hamant emerged as one of the top goalkeepers in the Big Ten, achieving the third-lowest single-season goals against average in the program’s history with an impressive 0.66. However, she was unable to participate in her senior season due to her cancer diagnosis.

“Mia was the heart of our program—someone who uplifted everyone around her with her joy, courage, and kindness,” stated Nicole Van Dyke, the women’s soccer coach. “Even in the most challenging moments, she exhibited 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.”

In April, Hamant was diagnosed with Stage 4 kidney cancer and made the decision to step away from her team to begin chemotherapy treatment. During this time, she received widespread support from the Washington athletic department, including gestures of solidarity from Huskies wide receiver Denzel Boston following their victory over No. 23 Illinois on October 25.

Hamant attended that game and had the honor of sounding the siren at Husky Stadium just two weeks before her passing.

“We are heartbroken by the passing of Mia Hamant after her courageous battle with cancer. Mia inspired everyone around her with her strength and spirit. Our love is with her family, teammates, and all who knew her. Her legacy will forever live in Husky Athletics,” the university stated in a heartfelt message on social media.

Boston expressed his support, saying, “Mia Hamant on our soccer team is going through tough, tough struggles with cancer. We’re just trying to be there to support her.”

Earlier this week, the Big Ten recognized Hamant’s resilience by awarding her the 2025 Sportsmanship Award.

“The University of Washington grieves the heartbreaking loss of Mia Hamant, whose strength, kindness, and spirit touched everyone around her,” said athletic director Pat Chun. “Mia embodied everything we hope for in a Husky student-athlete—perseverance, grace, and an unwavering commitment to her teammates and community. Her remarkable courage through adversity and the legacy she leaves behind will forever inspire the UW family.”

Hamant is survived by her parents.