SACRAMENTO, Calif. — With profound sadness, Cal North mourns the loss of Mia Hamant. Mia played in our ODP program from 2016 to 2021 and was a cherished member of our soccer family. Mia’s spirit—her joy, determination, and kindness—left an indelible mark on our organization and on everyone who knew her.
Mia demonstrated true leadership both on and off the field. She embraced every challenge with courage, uplifted her teammates, and embodied the values we strive to instill in all our players.
Our thoughts and prayers are with Mia’s parents, Candice and Kevin, her family, teammates, coaches, and friends as they navigate this heartbreaking loss. We invite our entire Cal North community to reflect on Mia’s life and the many lives she touched.
"Mia had a commanding presence about her. She had a big personality, which you need from a goalkeeper and a leader. She was a shining light and a great competitor but she was always someone you could talk to and a shoulder you could lean on," said Ivan Bandov - former Cal North ODP coach and Redwood High School coach.
Mia was a part of the 2004 Girls Cal North ODP team that captured the 2020 Far West ODP Regional Championships. Coach Ivan recounts, "She had one of the best games I've ever seen her play in that final versus Utah. She steps up to the moment and when the lights are the brightest, she shines."
"Mia was unique, energetic, full of personality, resilient, and passionate about all aspects of life (on and off the pitch). She carried the attitude of playing for a championship or a college scholarship into every game, no matter the circumstance. From the first time I coached Mia, you just knew that whatever she wanted to do, she would accomplish," stated former ODP coach, Creed Larrucea.
Coach Creed shares, "My heart goes out to her father, Kevin, and mother, Candice. I know Mia fought bravely until the end and is at peace. Her family, friends, teammates, and coaches will be grappling for years to understand how we lost such a vibrant and dynamic person so soon."
“Mia was the heart of our program—someone who lifted up everyone around her with her joy, courage, and kindness.”
— Nicole Van Dyke, Head Coach, University of Washington Women’s Soccer
“Her remarkable courage through adversity and the legacy she leaves behind will forever inspire us.”
— Pat Chun, Director of Athletics, University of Washington
(University of Washington Athletics)
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