Rugby player Connor Garden-Bachop dies at the age of 25 after ‘medical event’

The rugby community is saying goodbye to a much-loved member.

Connor Garden-Bachop, a rising rugby star in New Zealand, died after a medical emergency on June 17, confirmed by New Zealand Rugby. He was 25.

“On behalf of the entire rugby community,” a statement from the organization began on June 18, “the Highlanders, Wellington Rugby, New Zealand Rugby, the New Zealand Māori Rugby Board and the New Zealand Rugby Players Association would like to express our deepest thoughts. and love for the Garden-Bachop family. All rugby members are walking with the Garden-Bachop family at this time and we are collectively united in our grief.

The statement added that Connor was “a fantastic” player and noted: “Wherever he played, he was a dedicated and popular teammate with infectious energy and someone who could light up the room.”

“Most importantly,” the message continued, “was a loving father to his twin girls, a brother and a son, and loved beyond measure by all who knew him.”

According to the Associated Press, Christchurch police issued a statement saying they witnessed a sudden death in the suburb of Fendalton, but that “the death is not being treated as suspicious and will be referred to the coroner.”