Mia Hammant, a goalkeeper for the Washington women’s soccer team who helped the Huskies reach the Big Ten Tournament semifinals as a junior, has died. She was 21 years old.
The university said Hemant died of kidney cancer on Thursday.
Hamant was one of the Big Ten’s best goalkeepers in 2024. He scored the third-fewest goals against average in a single season in program history at 0.66. Hamant opted out of his senior season due to a cancer diagnosis.
“Mia was the heart of our program – someone who lifted up everyone around her with her joy, courage and kindness,” women’s soccer coach Nicole Van Dyke said in a statement. statement,
“Even in the toughest moments, she showed an unwavering spirit that inspired her teammates and coaches every day. Mia made us all better people, and her impact will always be felt in this program and in all of our lives.”
In April, Hamant was diagnosed with stage 4 kidney cancer and withdrew from the team to begin chemotherapy treatment. He received support from the entire Washington athletic department after a 42–25 win over No. 23 Illinois on October 25, including Huskies wide receiver Denzel Boston.
Hamant attended the game and played the siren at Husky Stadium two weeks before his death.
We are saddened by the passing of Mia Hamant after a courageous battle with cancer. Mia inspired everyone around her with her strength and spirit. Our love goes out to his family, teammates and everyone who knew him. His legacy will live on forever in Husky athletics. pic.twitter.com/cIwVQL27o3
– Washington Athletics (@UWAthletics) 7 November 2025
“Mia Hamant of our football team is going through a tough, tough battle with cancer,” Boston said after the game. “We’re just trying to be there to support him.”
The Big Ten honored Hamant with the 2025 Sportsmanship Award earlier this week.
“The University of Washington mourns the heartbreaking loss of Mia Hamant, whose strength, kindness and spirit inspired everyone around her,” athletic director Pat Chun said in a statement.
“Mia embodied everything we hope for in a Husky student-athlete – tenacity, grace, and an unwavering commitment to her teammates and community. Her remarkable courage in the face of adversity and the legacy she leaves will forever inspire the UW family.”
Hemant’s family consists of his parents.
