New Zealand rugby star Connor Garden-Bachop died after a “medical event.” He was 25.
New Zealand Rugby confirmed Garden-Bachop died Monday.
“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,” the organization said in a statement.
“Connor was a fantastic young player, an exciting New Zealand age-grade representative and a proud Māori All Black,” the statement continued. “Wherever he played, he was a committed and popular teammate with infectious energy and someone who could light up the room.”
“Most importantly, he was a loving father to his twin girls, a brother, a son and immeasurably loved by all those who knew him.”
Christchurch police said Monday that the death was not being considered suspicious and was referred to the coroner.
Garden-Bachop’s father, Stephen Bachop, and uncle, Graham Bachop, played rugby for the New Zealand national team, too. His mother, Sue, played for the country’s rugby, basketball and field hockey teams.
“All of rugby walks alongside the Garden-Bachop family at this time and we are collectively united in our grief,” NZR’s statement concluded.
