Mia Hamant, a talented goalkeeper for the University of Washington’s women’s soccer team, has died at the age of 21 following a battle with kidney cancer. Hamant passed away on October 26, 2023, after being diagnosed with Stage 4 kidney cancer in April of the same year. Her contributions to the Huskies solidified her as one of the top goalkeepers in the Big Ten Conference during the 2024 season.
During her junior year, Hamant played a pivotal role in leading the Huskies to the semifinals of the Big Ten tournament. She recorded an impressive goals against average of just 0.66, marking the third-lowest single-season average in the program’s history. Tragically, she was unable to participate in her senior season due to her cancer diagnosis.
The impact Hamant had on her team and the wider university community was profound. Women’s soccer coach Nicole Van Dyke expressed her deep sorrow in a statement, saying, “Mia was the heart of our program — someone who lifted up everyone around her with her joy, courage, and kindness.” Van Dyke noted that even through her struggles, Hamant displayed an “unshakable spirit” that inspired everyone around her.
In the wake of her diagnosis, Hamant stepped away from soccer to undergo chemotherapy. During this time, she received an outpouring of support from the Washington athletic department, including fellow student-athlete Denzel Boston, a wide receiver for the Huskies football team. Following a victory against No. 23 Illinois on October 25, Boston highlighted the importance of supporting Hamant as she faced her challenges. “Mia Hamant on our soccer team is going through tough, tough struggles with cancer,” he said. “We’re just trying to be there to support her.”
Hamant’s bravery was recognized by the Big Ten earlier this week when she was posthumously awarded the 2025 Sportsmanship Award, a testament to her character and dedication to her sport.
The University of Washington’s athletic director, Pat Chun, also released a statement mourning her loss. “The University of Washington grieves the heartbreaking loss of Mia Hamant, whose strength, kindness, and spirit touched everyone around her,” Chun stated. He emphasized that she embodied the qualities of perseverance and grace that the university hopes to instill in all of its student-athletes.
Hamant is survived by her parents, who, along with her teammates and friends, will carry forward her legacy of courage and inspiration within the Husky community. The university and its athletic programs reflect on the profound impact she made, ensuring that her spirit will be felt for years to come.
