The rugby community in New Zealand is deeply saddened by the premature passing of 25-year-old Connor Garden-Bachop, an accomplished outside back for the Otago Highlanders. New Zealand Rugby has confirmed that Garden-Bachop passed away on Monday due to a medical event, leaving behind a lasting legacy that will not be forgotten.
Making his debut with the Highlanders in 2021, Garden-Bachop played a significant role in the team this season. However, he recently bid farewell to the Super Rugby Pacific club after their campaign culminated in the quarter-finals. In a poignant social media post just days before his passing, he expressed gratitude to the Highlanders for what he described as “an unforgettable five years.”
The entire rugby community, including New Zealand Rugby, the Highlanders, the New Zealand Māori Rugby board, and the country’s players’ association, joined forces to pay tribute to Garden-Bachop in a collective statement. Describing him as a “remarkable young player” and an “exciting New Zealand age-grade representative,” the statement highlighted his contributions both on and off the field. Above all, Garden-Bachop was celebrated as a devoted father to his twin daughters, a beloved brother and son, and a cherished friend to many.
Garden-Bachop’s impact was not confined to the domestic rugby scene in New Zealand. He also proudly represented the Māori All Blacks, with appearances in two Tests against Ireland in 2022. Coming from a family deeply entrenched in rugby, he followed in the footsteps of his father, Stephen Bachop, a dual international for Samoa and New Zealand, as well as his mother, Sue Garden-Bachop, who graced the field for the renowned New Zealand women’s team, the Black Ferns.
The rugby pedigree further extended to Garden-Bachop’s uncle, Graeme Bachop, a World Cup veteran who represented the All Blacks in 1991 and 1995 before playing for Japan in 1999. Additionally, his cousin Aaron Mauger had a notable career with the All Blacks and later transitioned into coaching, overseeing the reins of the Highlanders from 2018 to 2020.
The passing of Connor Garden-Bachop has not only left a void in the world of rugby but has also served as a poignant reminder of the fragility of life. His legacy as a talented athlete, a devoted family man, and a beloved friend will continue to be cherished by those who had the privilege of knowing him.
As we mourn the loss of one of our own, the rugby fraternity stands in solidarity with the Garden-Bachop family during this difficult time, remembering a remarkable individual whose spirit and passion for the game will forever be honoured.