The rugby community is mourning the untimely death of Connor Garden-Bachop, a talented New Zealand Super Rugby player, who passed away at the age of 25. Garden-Bachop died in Christchurch following a medical event on Monday, as confirmed by New Zealand Rugby.
Connor Garden-Bachop hailed from a distinguished rugby lineage. His father, Stephen Bachop, was a dual international who played for both Samoa and New Zealand, while his mother, Sue Garden-Bachop, was a celebrated player for the Black Ferns, New Zealand’s women’s rugby team. Additionally, his uncle, Graeme Bachop, had an illustrious career, representing the All Blacks in the 1991 and 1995 World Cups and Japan in the 1999 tournament.
Garden-Bachop’s own rugby journey was equally promising. He played for the Highlanders over the past five years, a tenure marked by dedication and impressive performances. His tenure with the team culminated earlier this month when they reached the Super Rugby quarter-finals. Known for his agility and infectious energy, Garden-Bachop also represented the Maori All Blacks in 2022, showcasing his skill and passion for the sport.
New Zealand Rugby released a heartfelt statement, expressing the collective grief of the rugby community. “All of rugby walks alongside the Garden-Bachop family at this time and we are collectively united in our grief,” the statement read. “Connor was a fantastic young player, an exciting New Zealand age-grade representative and a proud Maori All Black. Wherever he played, he was a committed and popular team-mate with infectious energy and someone who could light up the room.”
The loss of Connor Garden-Bachop is deeply felt across the rugby world, as friends, family, and fans remember a vibrant young athlete whose potential and spirit touched many.
