Mia Hamant, a goalkeeper for the women’s soccer squad at Washington who assisted the Huskies in advancing to the semifinals of the Big Ten tournament during her junior year, has passed away. She was 21.
The university reported that Hamant succumbed to kidney cancer on Thursday.
In 2024, Hamant stood out as one of the finest goalkeepers in the Big Ten. She achieved the third-lowest single-season goals against average in the program’s history, recording 0.66. Unfortunately, she missed her senior year due to her cancer diagnosis.
“Mia was the heart and soul of our program – a person who uplifted everyone in her presence with her joy, bravery, and compassion,” stated women’s soccer coach Nicole Van Dyke in a statement.
“Even during the toughest times, she displayed an unyielding spirit that motivated her teammates and coaches every day. Mia made us all better individuals, and her influence will resonate within this program and in our lives indefinitely.”
In April, Hamant received a Stage 4 kidney cancer diagnosis, leading her to step back from the team to initiate chemotherapy. She was supported by the entire Washington athletic department, including Huskies wide receiver Denzel Boston after their victory of 42-25 over No. 23 Illinois on October 25.
Hamant attended that game and sounded the siren at Husky Stadium just two weeks before her passing.
We are devastated by the loss of Mia Hamant following her brave fight against cancer. Mia motivated all those around her with her resilience and spirit. Our hearts are with her family, teammates, and everyone who knew her. Her legacy will forever remain in Husky Athletics. 💜🐾 pic.twitter.com/cIwVQL27o3
— Washington Athletics (@UWAthletics) November 7, 2025
“Mia Hamant, a member of our soccer team, is facing significant challenges with cancer,” Boston remarked after the game. “We are simply trying to be here for her.”
The Big Ten recognized Hamant with the 2025 Sportsmanship Award earlier this week.
“The University of Washington mourns the tragic loss of Mia Hamant, whose strength, compassion, and spirit left a mark on everyone she encountered,” stated athletic director Pat Chun.
“Mia epitomized what we aspire to see in a Husky student-athlete – resilience, dignity, and an unfaltering dedication to her teammates and the community. Her extraordinary bravery in the face of adversity and the legacy she leaves will forever motivate the UW family.”
Hamant is survived by her parents.
