Derick Hougaard GoFundMe nears target
· The South African
A GoFundMe campaign created to raise funds for retired Springbok Derick Hougaard is nearing its target.
Visit asg-reflektory.pl for more information.
The 43-year-old rugby player made headlines last month when he confessed to being in “big trouble”. Since then, fans have rallied to show him support with kind words and by digging deep into their pockets.
Since hanging up his boots in 2015, Derick has suffered a series of personal setbacks over the years, including substance addiction, failed relationships and a series of health issues.
DERICK HOUGAARD’S GOFUNDME NEARS TARGET
In recent weeks, a GoFundMe campaign called “Together for Derick Hougaard”, has managed to raise almost 90% of its target.
The campaign – which has an automated goal setting – was created by Springbok fan Lizelle Gers, who lived in Australia.
It has currently raised AUD $2,667 (R31 000) out of its AUD $3 000 (R34 000) target. It was initially set at $28,000 (R321 000).
The campaign has received 39 donations from donors around the world.
Gers shared in a motivation: “If each of us contributes just a little, together we can make a meaningful difference. No donation is too small. Whether you’re in South Africa or anywhere else in the world, let’s show Derick that he is not alone and that the rugby community and South Africans never forget those who have proudly represented us”.
LIKE AFTER PRO RUGBY
Derick Hougaard has previously spoken about how his rugby career was “cut short” following a series of injuries, particularly concussions
The flyhalf transitioned into rugby coaching and sports commentary, as many former players do.
However, his gig as a SuperSport commentator was terminated due to his controversial comments on transformation in rugby.
In 2020, Derick Hougaard shared his plan to enter the NFL in the US.
He stated that he would attend the World Wide Scholarships (WWS) talent scouting camp in South Africa in hopes of transitioning from rugby flyhalf to an American football kicker/punter.
“All athletes dream of a second chance, and this is mine”, he said at the time.
He added, “I still have five years left in me.”
A year later, his dream appeared to have fizzled out. Over the next few years, Derick became addicted to booze and prescription pills.
After a 2023 health scare, Derick’s medical and rehabilitation bills likely started accumulating, possibly in addition to his inability to work.
His life’s story, including his struggles with mental and physical health, financial setbacks, substance abuse, and failed relationships, was told via a kykNET documentary and biography that both came out in 2023.