Washington has announced that women’s soccer goalkeeper Mia Hamant has died following a battle with Stage Four kidney cancer. She was 21.
Below is the official release by the athletic program:
The University of Washington Athletics Department is heartbroken to share the news of the passing of women’s soccer student-athlete Mia Hamant (Corte Madera, Calif.), following her courageous battle with Stage 4 kidney cancer.
Our thoughts and prayers are with her parents, Candice and Kevin, her family, teammates, coaches, friends and all who were fortunate to know her.
Mia’s legacy and spirit will forever remain a part of the University of Washington. Her heart, selflessness and resilience inspired everyone. 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 was able to touch.
“Mia was the heart of our program — someone who lifted up everyone around her with her joy, courage, and kindness. 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.”
— Nicole Van Dyke, Head Coach, Washington Women’s Soccer
“The University of Washington grieves the heartbreaking loss of Mia Hamant, whose strength, kindness, and spirit touched everyone around her. Mia embodied everything we hope for in a Husky student-athlete — perseverance, grace, and an unwavering commitment to her teammates and community. Her remarkable courage through adversity and the legacy she leaves behind will forever inspire the UW family.”
— Pat Chun, Director of Athletics, University of Washington
“I had the privilege of getting to know Mia throughout her four years as a student-athlete, and during her diagnosis and treatment. I was also fortunate to be with her to the end of her journey. Throughout the process, Mia fought her cancer as fiercely as she played. She wished to be an inspiration to others also fighting cancer, as well as a source of awareness and destigmatization.”
— Ashwin Rao, MD, Team Physician, University of Washington Athletics
The University of Washington will share details regarding a memorial or celebration of life at a later time.