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Connor Garden-Bachop, a rising star in New Zealand rugby, has passed away at the age of 25 following a medical emergency. His death was confirmed on June 17 by New Zealand Rugby, sending shockwaves through the rugby community.
In a heartfelt statement released on June 18, New Zealand Rugby expressed its profound sorrow. "On behalf of the entire rugby community, the Highlanders, Wellington Rugby, New Zealand Rugby, the New Zealand Māori Rugby Board, and the New Zealand Rugby Players Association would like to extend our deepest thoughts and love to the Garden-Bachop family".
All of rugby walks alongside the Garden-Bachop family at this time and we are collectively united in our grief. The organization praised Connor as "a fantastic player", adding, "Wherever he played, he was a committed and popular teammate with infectious energy and someone who could light up the room". Beyond his prowess on the field, Connor was remembered as a loving father to his twin girls, a brother, a son, and a cherished friend.
Christchurch police confirmed they attended to a sudden death in the suburb of Fendalton, stating, "The death is not being treated as suspicious and will be referred to the coroner".
Connor, who spent five seasons with the Highlanders and was a member of the Māori All Blacks, came from a distinguished rugby lineage. His grandfather Graeme Bachop and his father Stephen Bachop were both All Blacks. Stephen also played for Samoa and New Zealand, while Graeme participated in two World Cups. Connor's late mother, Sue Garden-Bachop, was also a notable rugby player for the New Zealand women's team, the Black Ferns.
Just days before his untimely passing, Connor shared a poignant farewell message on social media as he parted ways with the Highlanders. "Thank you @highlandersteam for an unforgettable five years", he wrote on June 13. "Thank you to everyone in the south for making me feel at home, and thank you to the boys I have been honored to share the field with, it's been a pleasure, I will miss you all. Till next time".
New Zealand Rugby's joint statement included a touching verse in Māori, translated to English, honoring Connor's legacy: "Attention Attention / The house of rugby laments / The passing of one of its sons. Who graced the playing fields / O Chiefly one / Connor / The rugby world weeps for you. Rest now in peace our friend".
Connor Garden-Bachop's passing leaves a profound void in the rugby world, but his legacy will endure through the countless lives he touched both on and off the field.
