Former Springbok Derick Hougaard Launches New Venture After GoFundMe Backlash
- Former Springbok Derick Hougaard announced a new business venture on Facebook following public criticism over a GoFundMe campaign
- The retired flyhalf is endorsing a new business directory app called Wha2do, created by Limpopo businessman Lesley Bernard
- Hougaard's post-rugby years have been marked by health scares, substance struggles, and several failed career transitions
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Former Springbok flyhalf Derick Hougaard has announced a new business venture, pivoting to a commercial endorsement role after facing public criticism over a crowdfunding campaign that solicited donations on his behalf.
Hougaard, who retired from professional rugby in 2015 following a series of injuries, shared the news on his Facebook account. The post promoted a business directory application called Wha2do, a start-up developed by Limpopo entrepreneur Lesley Bernard.
Bernard publicly encouraged South Africans to back the former Springbok's involvement with the platform. "Today, there is a new way for Derick to live out his love for South Africa," a statement accompanying the business read.
Hougaard's post-rugby career path
Once celebrated as the "Liefling van Loftus" during his time at the Bulls, Hougaard struggled to find stable footing after hanging up his boots. Concussion-related injuries were cited as a primary reason his playing career ended earlier than anticipated.
Like many retired players, he moved into rugby coaching and sports commentary. His role as a SuperSport commentator, however, was cut short after he made controversial remarks about transformation in rugby.
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In 2020, Hougaard set his sights on a career in American football, announcing plans to attend a World Wide Scholarships talent scouting camp in South Africa, where he hoped to transition from rugby flyhalf to NFL kicker or punter. "All athletes dream of a second chance, and this is mine," he said at the time, adding that he believed he had "five years left" in him as a professional athlete. The NFL bid did not materialise.
In subsequent years, Hougaard spoke openly about battling addiction to alcohol and prescription medication. A health scare in 2023 brought renewed public attention to his situation, with mounting medical and rehabilitation costs adding financial pressure. That same year, a kykNET documentary and a published biography both examined his life, covering his struggles with mental and physical health, substance abuse, financial difficulties, and personal relationships.
His involvement with Wha2do, alongside ongoing participation in rugby coaching programmes, marks his latest attempt to establish a sustainable post-playing career.
Source: Briefly News
