‘Every little bit helps’: Derick Hougaard shares GoFundMe
· The South African
A Springbok fan has started a GoFundMe account to support Derick Hougaard, who has shared the news of his misfortune on social media.
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The retired rugby player – once known as “Liefleng van Loftus” – has claimed he is in “big trouble” on his social media platforms.
Derrick hung up his boots in 2015 after a series of head injuries. His personal life has also taken a knock with headlines of his high-profile relationship splits, substance abuse and a stint in the ICU.
DERICK HOUGAARD GOFUNDME CAMPAIGN
On his Facebook account, Derick Hougaard posted a link to a GoFundMe campaign in his name.
“Together for Derick” was started by Springbok fan Lizelle Gers and called for the public to donate cash to the retired player who is reportedly suffering financial hardships.
The campaign – created in the “rent, food and monthly bills” -stated that Derick fell on hard times after a series of health challenges that left him “behind on his payments”.
It shared: “He has recently reached out for help, and I believe this is our opportunity to stand behind someone who once gave so much to South African rugby.
“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.
Every donation—big or small—makes a difference. If you’re unable to donate, simply sharing this fundraiser with your family and friends is another powerful way to help. Together, we can show Derick Hougaard that he’s not facing this journey alone”
At the time of publishing, the campaign has not received any donations, nor has a target been set.
FINANCIAL HARD TIMES?
Derick Hougaard has admitted to keeping a low profile for the past two years to protect his privacy.
Since his health setback in 2023, when he spent weeks in a coma after contracting respiratory pneumonia, Derick has spent extensive time in rehabilitation.
He is also believed to have spent time in a psychiatric hospital over his addiction to prescription pills.
He has likely needed financial assistance for medical and rehabilitation expenses, and possibly the inability to work because of his health.
For a few years after his retirement, Derick Hougaard worked as a rugby commentator on SuperSport, but was sacked in 2017 over his comments about transformation in the sport.
Before landing in the ICU, Derick also established his own private rugby school, particularly in his expertise in goal kicking, line kicking and tactical kicking
It’s unclear if the former Springbok and Bulls player now has any source of income