U.S. water polo captain Maggie Steffens is competing at the Paris Olympics with a heavy heart after her sister-in-law, Lulu Conner, passed away just days before the Games began. Lulu had traveled to Paris to support Steffens, who is aiming for a fourth consecutive gold medal. Steffens described Lulu as the “light of the world” and someone who brought joy to everyone she met.
Despite her grief, Steffens scored two goals in the U.S. team’s victory over Greece and is the highest scoring woman in Olympic water polo history. She expressed that playing helps her feel connected to Lulu’s spirit and strives to honor her sister-in-law’s memory.
Steffens’ husband, Bobby Conner, Lulu’s brother, and his family have been a source of support during this difficult time. The team has also rallied around Steffens, providing a support system as she navigates her grief while competing in the Olympics.
The death of Lulu before the Olympics brought back memories of the 2016 Games when coach Adam Krikorian lost his brother, Blake, before the competition. Krikorian emphasized the importance of showing Steffens love and support during this challenging period and allowing her time to be with her family. Despite the tragedy, Steffens is determined to make her sister-in-law proud with her performance at the Games.
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