The 2024 Summer Olympics in Paris took a heavy toll on the USA Water Polo team, as team captain Maggie Steffens experienced a devastating loss. Steffens’ sister-in-law, Lulu Conner, unexpectedly passed away while in Paris to support the team.
Maggie Steffens, a three-time gold medalist and a prominent figure in the sport, shared her heartbreak with the Associated Press. “She was so thrilled about the Olympic Games.
Our bond was very strong. Lulu brought immense joy to everyone she encountered and had a remarkable ability to bring people together.”
Lulu Conner, at the age of 26, tragically passed away after encountering a medical emergency during her time in Paris. Lulu, the younger sister of Steffens’ husband, Bobby Conner, lost her life on July 23. The timing of this loss was especially poignant, as Steffens had married Bobby just last November.
To commemorate the memory of her beloved sister-in-law, Maggie Steffens paid a heartfelt tribute during the Olympics’ opening ceremony. She dropped a bouquet into the Seine, symbolizing Lulu’s spirit and the lasting impact she had on their lives.
In the midst of this profound grief, Steffens found solace in the support of her teammates. “It’s going to be an immensely challenging few weeks for all of us,” she shared.
“My team has been an incredible source of support for me, as well as my husband and his entire family. It’s truly a nightmare, and the shock is overwhelming. However, I feel Lulu’s presence here, and it’s nothing short of amazing. Every single day, I aim to make her proud.”
Beyond family bonds, Lulu Conner had artistic talents that left a lasting impression. As an artist, she created a unique version of Flavor Flav’s iconic clocks with a USA water polo theme.
Flavor Flav, a devoted fan of the USA water polo team, was given a special clock crafted by Steffen’s husband. Lulu also gifted clocks to the entire USA water polo team, adding her artistic touch to their Olympic journey.
On the competitive front, the USA women’s water polo team made a strong start on July 27, defeating Greece 15-6 in their opening match.
Steffens showcased her prowess by scoring two goals, solidifying her title as the highest-scoring woman in the history of the Olympics. With an impressive tally of 58 goals so far, Steffens continues to etch her name in the annals of water polo greatness.
As the Olympic Games unfold, the USA water polo family grapples with profound loss. Yet, through moments of grief and remembrance, they find strength in unity and determination to honor the memory of their beloved Lulu Conner.
