SEATTLE (AP) — Mia Hammant, a goalie 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.
Hammant died Thursday of kidney cancer, the university announced.
Hammant was one of the best goaltenders in the Big Ten in 2024. She posted the third-lowest goals-against average in program history at 0.66. Hammant missed his senior season because he was diagnosed with cancer.
“Mia was the heart of our program and someone who inspired those around her with her joy, courage and kindness,” women’s soccer coach Nicole Van Dyke said in a statement. “Even in the most difficult moments, she displayed an unwavering spirit that inspires her teammates and coaches every day. Mia made all of us better people, and her impact will forever be felt in this program and all of our lives.”
In April, Hamant was diagnosed with stage 4 kidney cancer and took time off from the team to begin chemotherapy treatment. She received support from the entire Washington athletic department, including Huskies wide receiver Denzel Boston, who played in a 42-25 win over No. 23 Illinois on Oct. 25.
Hammant attended a game and set off the siren at Husky Stadium two weeks before his death.
“Mia Hammant of our soccer team is going through a tough battle with cancer,” Boston coach said after the game. “We’re just trying to be there to support her.”
The Big Ten awarded the Corte Madera, Calif., native its 2025 Sportsmanship Award earlier this week.
“The University of Washington is mourning the heartbreaking loss of Mia Hammant. Her strength, kindness and spirit touched the hearts of those around her,” Athletic Director Pat Chun said in a statement. “Mia embodied everything we want in a Husky student-athlete: perseverance, grace, and unwavering dedication to her teammates and community. Her incredible courage in the face of adversity and the legacy she leaves behind will forever be an inspiration to the UW family.”
Mr. Hammant is survived by his parents;
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