Highlanders' Connor Garden-Bachop Passes Away at 25

Highlanders rugby player Connor Garden-Bachop has tragically passed away at the age of 25. The young athlete's untimely death has left the sports community in shock and mourning. Garden-Bachop was known for his exceptional talent and dedication to the game. His passing is a significant loss to the team and fans alike, who remember him for his contributions on and off the field. Tributes are pouring in from across the rugby world.

Boston Brand Media brings you the trending news - Highlanders outside back Connor Garden-Bachop has passed away at 25 after an unspecified "medical event," New Zealand Rugby announced on Tuesday.

"Connor passed away on Monday following a medical event, and rugby's collective focus at this time is on supporting his family," New Zealand Rugby said in a statement.

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Garden-Bachop, the son of former All Black Stephen Bachop, played for the Highlanders in this season's Super Rugby competition.

The winger, who also played representative rugby for the Māori All Blacks, comes from a family of New Zealand internationals.

"All of rugby walks alongside the Garden-Bachop family at this time, and we are collectively united in our grief," the statement continued.

"Connor was a fantastic young player, an exciting New Zealand age-grade representative, and a proud Māori All Black. 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."

His mother, Susan Garden-Bachop, played for New Zealand's Black Ferns, while his uncle Graeme Bachop also represented the All Blacks.

Garden-Bachop, a father of twin girls, debuted for the Highlanders in 2021 and made 30 appearances in Super Rugby.

The club had announced that he was among several players not returning next season.

In a recent Instagram post, Garden-Bachop expressed his gratitude to the Dunedin-based team.

"Thank you @highlandersteam for an unforgettable five years," he wrote.

"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."

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Source: Rugby‍