SEATTLE, WA — The University of Washington community is grieving the heartbreaking loss of Mia Hamant, a goalkeeper for the Washington Huskies Women’s Soccer team, who passed away this week at the age of 21. Mia’s death comes just months after doctors diagnosed her with what she herself described as an “extremely rare kidney cancer,” a condition that progressed with devastating speed.
Hamant, known for her sharp reflexes, unwavering focus, and infectious positivity, joined the Huskies with a love for the game that was impossible to miss. Teammates say she was the kind of player who lifted others — on the field, in the locker room, and in everyday life.
“Mia was pure heart,” one teammate shared. “She played with joy. She lived with joy. Even when things got hard, she kept showing up for us.”
When she announced her diagnosis earlier this year, Mia approached her battle with the same courage and composure that defined her as an athlete. She continued to attend practices and team events as often as she could, determined to remain part of the group she called her second family. The program rallied around her, wearing her initials on warmups and dedicating their season to her strength.
Her coaches describe her not only as a talented athlete, but as a leader — someone who built bridges, offered encouragement freely, and treated every teammate like they mattered.
“Mia made this program better,” the team’s coaching staff said in a statement. “She made us better as coaches, and better as people. Her loss is felt deeply and painfully.”
The university is offering counseling and grief support to players, staff, and students as they navigate this tragic loss.
A vigil is expected to be held on campus in the coming days, with candles to be placed along the sidelines of the Huskies’ home field — the same grass where Mia trained, laughed, persevered, and dreamed.
Mia Hamant leaves behind her family, her teammates, and countless friends who will remember her not for her illness, but for the strength, generosity, and joy she carried into every room, every huddle, and every moment of her 21 remarkable years.
The Huskies — and all who knew her — will carry her spirit forward.
Rest in peace, Mia. You were loved beyond measure.