Mia Hamant, a 21-year-old goalkeeper for the University of Washington’s women’s soccer team, who played a key role in guiding the Huskies to the semifinals of the Big Ten tournament during her junior year, has sadly passed away.
According to the university, Hamant succumbed to kidney cancer on Thursday.
In 2024, Hamant was recognized as one of the top goalkeepers in the Big Ten, achieving the third-lowest goals against average in a single season in the program’s history, with an impressive 0.66. Unfortunately, she had to miss her senior season due to her cancer diagnosis.
Women’s soccer coach Nicole Van Dyke expressed her sorrow in a statement, saying, “Mia was the heart of our program, uplifting everyone around her with her joy, courage, and kindness. Even in the most challenging moments, she displayed an unwavering spirit that inspired her teammates and coaches each day. Mia made us all better people, and her influence on this program and our lives will last forever.”
Hamant received her Stage 4 kidney cancer diagnosis in April and chose to step back from the team to start chemotherapy. She was supported by the Washington athletic community, including Huskies wide receiver Denzel Boston, after their victory over No. 23 Illinois on October 25.
Two weeks before her passing, Hamant attended a game and even sounded the siren at Husky Stadium.
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. đđŸ pic.twitter.com/cIwVQL27o3
â Washington Athletics (@UWAthletics) November 7, 2025
After the game, Boston shared, “Mia is going through tough struggles with cancer. We’re just trying to be there to support her.”
Earlier this week, the Big Ten honored Hamant with the 2025 Sportsmanship Award.
In a statement, athletic director Pat Chun said, “The University of Washington mourns the profound loss of Mia Hamant, whose strength, kindness, and spirit left a lasting impact on everyone around her. Mia embodied the ideals we seek in Husky student-athletesâperseverance, grace, and unwavering dedication to her teammates and community. Her incredible courage in the face of adversity and the legacy she created will continue to inspire the UW family.”
Hamant is survived by her parents.