Lulu Conner is the sister-in-law of water polo athlete Maggie Steffens, whose husband is Bobby Conner, Lulu’s brother.
While the details surrounding Lulu’s death are unclear, Maggie said she had been ‘so excited’ to be watching the team in Paris.
“She was so excited for the Olympic Games,” Maggie told The Associated Press.
“We’re really close. She’s the light of the world. She just brings so much joy to everyone. She always brings people together.
“It definitely helps to play. I’m like so out of body in a way right now. And I just keep trying to remind myself what Lulu would want and how she would be, you know, how can I embody her spirit the best. And Lulu was somebody that she gave 150 percent to everything she did.”
Maggie had been seen throwing flowers into the River Seine during the opening ceremony, in remembrance of Lulu.
At the time, NBC said that her husband’s family had a bereavement, but they didn’t elaborate on any further details.
“It’s going to be a really hard couple of weeks for all of us,” Maggie added.
“My team has been a really big support system for me. I’ve been obviously really struggling, and my husband as well, and his entire family.
“I mean, it’s a nightmare, and it’s completely shocking. But I think just feeling her spirit here is, like I said, it’s amazing. And I hope that we can make her proud every single day.”
Team USA coach Adam Krikorian also spoke about the devastating news, explaining that it had been a shock for everyone.
“I don’t know the circumstances. But it’s a devastating time for Bobby and his family and for Maggie,” Adam said, as per the San Francisco Chronicle.
“From what I know Lulu was full of energy, and so excited to be here and watch this team. We can honor her by playing with energy.
“It’s not something you’re ever prepared for. Maggie knows my pain and sorrow – I’ve shared that with her. The pain and shock are the things that stick out.”
In 2016, Adam lost his brother, Blake, and went home to be with his family before returning for the team’s first game in Rio.
“You know when it happens, it’s like all the emotions come pouring back to you,” he said.
“You might not feel these emotions that often, but then they just come rushing back.
“You just show her love and support. You know it’s important that she’s there for Bobby and his family as well. This is a difficult time for them, and giving her some freedom to be able to spend some time with them I think is enormously important.”
