“I’m Not Happy”: Joburg’s Desmond Koolen Sends a Message to the Springboks After a Crushing Defeat

• Young Johannesburg content creator Desmond Koolen delivered a passionate video message defending the Springboks following their disappointing loss to New Zealand
• The boy criticised South African fans for their harsh treatment of players on social media, calling out keyboard warriors for being mean to his rugby heroes
• Mzansi viewers praised the child's mature perspective, with many adults admitting they felt ashamed of how fans had reacted to the team's performance

A young Johannesburg content creator has captured hearts across South Africa after delivering a powerful message to Springbok fans following the team's crushing defeat.

Desmond Koolen, known as "The I Feel Good Kid," shared an emotional video on 7 September 2025 on his Facebook page @lifeaccordingtodesi, which has left many adults reflecting on their behaviour towards the national rugby team.

The passionate young Springboks supporter, who regularly shares content about his love for rugby and the Bokke, didn't hold back in his latest post. Speaking directly to the camera from his bedroom, Desmond expressed his disappointment not just with the team's performance, but more importantly, with how South African fans had been treating the players on social media.

Read also

Grief-stricken Prince Kaybee shares heartfelt throwback picture with late mom after her passing

In his heartfelt message, Desmond called out South Africans for being "keyboard warriors" who hide behind their devices to criticise players. He specifically defended several Springbok stars, asking fans how many of them would actually say harsh words to players' faces if they met them in person.

The young content creator reminded viewers that rugby players are human beings first, someone's son, husband, or brother, and that everyone makes mistakes. He questioned whether fans would be fired immediately from their jobs for making one error, drawing parallels to how people expect perfection from the Springboks.

Mzansi reacts to Desmond's passionate speech

The video quickly gained traction on social media, with thousands of South Africans praising Desmond's mature outlook and honest words about fan behaviour.

@shelleyhenderson wrote:

"You tell the grown-ups, Desi"

@delvineallen gushed:

"Desi, you go, kiddo. Dressing down the device supporters. Love you.👏"

@thabangmaponya admitted:

"I feel like I should apologise even though I didn't talk badly about our players."

Read also

Du Plessis addresses criticism faced after losing to Chimaev: "It doesn't fuel me"

@raviepathermoodley noted:

"It takes a child to realise the good, it's the adults that teach kids to be haters. This child has so much love and grace, and I applaud you."

@siphelokamadolo joked:

"Rassie's job is at stake now, this boy will replace him soon🥰❤️🫶🏾"

@kirstenopperman added:

"You are a kind wee soul. Hope the Bokke listened to your wise words!"

What happened at Eden Park

The Springboks suffered a disappointing 24-17 defeat against the All Blacks at Eden Park in Auckland, which ended their hopes of beating New Zealand at the famous ground for the first time since 1937. Coach Rassie Erasmus and captain Jesse Kriel attributed the loss to 15 poor minutes of play that cost them the match.

The defeat meant New Zealand maintained their incredible winning streak at Eden Park, which dates back to 1994, though both Erasmus and Kriel remained optimistic about their chances in the return fixture.

Read also

A TikTok showed how an uncle gifted his nephew a bicycle, and it left many people emotional online

Watch the Facebook clip below:

Other Springboks stories

• Briefly News recently reported on Springboks legend Steven Kitshoff urging Erasmus to rethink the team's playing style ahead of their Eden Park clash, with the former prop sharing specific insights about tactical changes that could give South Africa an edge.
• Jean Luc Du Preez became the latest Springbok star to be ruled out for the rest of the year, dealing Rassie Erasmus' side a major blow just before their crucial matches against the All Blacks.
• Stormers hooker Andre-Hugo Venter celebrated four years of love with Nikki Erasmus, revealing the sweet story behind his relationship with the Springboks coach's daughter and their rugby-connected romance.

Source: Briefly News