Connor Garden-Bachop, a prominent Highlanders rugby player, has tragically passed away. The 25-year-old died following a medical event on Monday evening at a relative’s home in Christchurch. Garden-Bachop, an outside back, is the son of former All Black Stephen Bachop and the late Black Fern Sue Garden-Bachop, and the nephew of former All Black Graeme Bachop.
Connor debuted for the Highlanders in 2021, earning the Rookie of the Year award that same year. He also played for the Wellington Lions and Canterbury in the NPC and was selected for the Māori All Blacks in 2022. His sudden death has left the rugby community in mourning, with New Zealand Rugby, the New Zealand Māori Rugby Board, Highlanders, Wellington Rugby, and the New Zealand Rugby Players Association releasing a joint statement expressing their condolences and commitment to supporting his family.
Highlanders chief executive Roger Clark expressed deep sorrow over the loss, highlighting Connor's vibrant personality and his significant impact both on and off the field. Garden-Bachop leaves behind twin daughters, and his death is a profound loss to his family, friends, and the wider rugby community.
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