Vale Bruce Connor - A Life Dedicated to Water Polo

The water polo community in New South Wales has lost one of its true pillars with the passing of Bruce Connor. Bruce's contributions to the sport spanned over half a century, marking him as a key figure in both the development of junior referees and the growth of the sport across the state. His presence will be sorely missed by all who had the privilege of knowing and working alongside him.

A Passion Sparked Early

Bruce's journey in water polo began at just nine years old, a natural progression from his love of swimming. His father, Kevin, was instrumental in his early involvement, coaching Bruce at Liverpool Water Polo Club in the early 1970s. The team, under Kevin’s guidance, went from challenging beginnings to winning the NSW first-grade competition, with Bruce emerging as a reliable defender and a force in the back positions. His powerful arm and precision shot from out wide made him a formidable player, leading to his representation of NSW in the Under-18 national competition.

Bruce's competitive spirit led him to join Sydney University Water Polo Club, where he became an integral part of the "Dad’s Army" team—playing for over twenty years in both summer and winter competitions until age and health took their toll. His love for the game never waned, and his impact as a player was matched by his dedication as a referee and mentor.

A Referee and Mentor to Many

When Bruce could no longer play, he turned his energy towards officiating and mentoring, giving back to the sport he loved in a profound way. Bruce became known as a fair but firm referee who did not tolerate abuse or dissent on pool deck. His approach was simple: run a tight game with consistency, ensuring respect for the rules and for the players. He often mentored young referees, understanding how intimidating it could be for them in those early days. His emphasis on consistency and building confidence made a lasting impact on the young officials he guided.

Bruce thrived on helping others at major WPNSW events, and he was a familiar face at tournaments, always ready to lend a hand as either a referee or, more recently, as a pool convenor. His passion for the country competitions was unmatched—he regularly volunteered at Country Club and Country District championships, always showing deep respect for the dedication of country members.

Gail Salter recalls Bruce staying involved in the Country Championships, transitioning to a pool convenor role once he finished refereeing. The Kevin Connor Cup for the Country Women’s Champions, donated by Bruce’s father, serves as a testament to the family's enduring legacy in the sport.

Bruce pcitured with Libby Magann and the Kevin Connor Cup

More Than Just a Referee

Bruce's generosity extended beyond the pool. He was known for supplying uniforms for Sydney University teams from his factory, never asking for anything in return. His contributions reflected his larger-than-life personality.

Michael Westdorp and Greg Heathcote both remember Bruce’s commitment to refereeing at country events, with Greg noting Bruce’s respect for country players and how it influenced his refereeing style—ensuring fairness and understanding the unique challenges faced by country teams. Greg also highlighted Bruce’s dedication to the Metropolitan Judiciary.

A Legacy That Lives On

Bruce Connor’s influence on water polo in NSW cannot be overstated. He was not just a player or a referee; he was a mentor, a community figure, and a passionate advocate for the game at all levels. His leadership, both on and off the pool deck, set an example for sportsmanship, dedication, and the importance of giving back.

To those who knew him, Bruce was a character—sometimes described as bombastic, but always with kindness at the core. Whether it was passionately debating calls on the pool deck or ensuring everyone had a meal after a game, Bruce's larger-than-life personality was always paired with genuine care for others. He had a big personality, a big heart, and a commitment to the water polo community that was unmatched. His contributions to WPNSW, Sydney University, and the broader water polo family will be remembered for years to come.

Celebrating Bruce’s Life

The funeral for Bruce will be held at Woronora Memorial Park, Sutherland, on Thursday, 21st November, at 1pm, with the burial at 2pm. Afterwards, friends and family are invited to gather at Club on East to share memories and celebrate Bruce’s incredible life.

Vale Bruce Connor. Your legacy, passion, and love for water polo will continue to inspire generations to come.