A Community Shattered by the Loss of a Bright and Courageous Soul
The University of Washington is mourning a devastating loss after the passing of 21-year-old Mia Hamant, a standout goalkeeper for the Washington Huskies women’s soccer team. Mia was more than an athlete—she was a source of joy, fight, and light for everyone around her. Her diagnosis of Stage 4 kidney cancer in April changed her life in unimaginable ways, yet her courage never wavered. With quiet strength, she became a symbol of perseverance for teammates, classmates, and countless supporters who rallied around her during her final months. Her passing has left the campus in profound grief, but her remarkable spirit continues to hold her community together.
Her Courage Echoed Across Husky Nation—A Fighter Until the Very End
Despite facing an aggressive illness, Mia refused to let fear or pain define her. She continued showing up for the sport she loved, supporting her teammates even when she could no longer take the field. Student-athletes across campus shared messages, videos, and memories celebrating her fight and her heart. Just two weeks before her passing, she stood before thousands at Husky Stadium and sounded the siren—a powerful moment that now serves as a cherished final memory of her strength. Her coach and teammates describe her as someone whose presence made harder days lighter, someone whose kindness left a mark long before her illness ever did. This week, the Big Ten Conference honored her legacy with the 2025 Big Ten Sportsmanship Award, recognizing her unmatched character, leadership, and generosity. Mia’s story reached far beyond wins and losses—it became a reminder of what true resilience looks like.
A Legacy of Light, Love, and Inspiration That Will Never Fade
Losing Mia at just 21 has created a wound felt across the entire university. For her family, especially her parents, the pain is immeasurable. For her teammates, it is the loss of a sister both on and off the field—a young woman whose laugh, encouragement, and steady belief in others helped shape their team’s heart. And for the broader Washington community, it is the loss of a gifted athlete whose courage extended far beyond the game. Mia leaves behind a legacy rooted in grace, humility, and quiet determination. She taught others what it means to be brave, to stay hopeful, and to show kindness no matter the weight one carries.