Washington goalkeeper Mia Hamant has died from kidney cancer, the university announced on Nov. 6. She was 21.
As a junior in 2024, Hamant helped the Huskies to the Big Ten tournament semifinals, making three saves in a penalty shootout win over Iowa. She had the third-lowest single-season goals against average in program history at 0.66. Hamant sat out her senior season due to her cancer diagnosis.
Hamant was diagnosed with Stage 4 SMARCB1-deficient kidney cancer, a rare and aggressive form of the disease, this past April. She started chemotherapy right away and, although she could not play, cheered her soccer team, the Seattle Times reported.
“Mia’s courage, optimism, and grace touched the lives of the entire Husky community. She will always serve as an inspiration for everyone whose life she touched,” the University of Washington Athletics Department said in a statement.
Social media was filled with remembrances, including this from Washington:
‘Mia was the heart of our program — someone who lifted up everyone around her with her joy, courage, and kindness,’ Washington head coach Nicole Van Dyke said in a statement. ‘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 teammates put together a tribute on social media.
The Big Ten honored Hamant with a 2025 Sportsmanship Award in its postseason soccer recognitions.
Washington said in its release that details regarding a memorial or celebration of life would come at a later date.
Hamant is survived by her parents.