Dainfern learner’s front row seat on the Bokke tour

Desmond had his Springbok dream come true when he recently met the whole squad.

November 9, 2023

Ditiro Masuku 2 minutes read

Grant williams, Kurt-Lee Arendse, Desmond Koolen, and Marco van Staden.

It’s a dream come true for Dainfern College learner, Desmond Koolen, who took to the stage and welcomed the rugby squad after returning home from the Rugby World Cup in France.

The 7-year-old rugby fanatic popularly known as ‘The Feel Good Kid’ was at the Multichoice City in Randburg where he gave a heartwarming speech for the Boks.

“It was very exciting because I had just hoped that they would maybe comment or repost my Instagram videos. I never thought I would actually get to meet them like this,” he said to the Review.

Jean Kleyn, Eben Etzebeth, Desmond Koolen at the top, and RG Snyman.

Desmond spoke from his heart as he gave his speech because he said he was caught by surprise, “I did not know that I was going to be speaking on the stage. When we got to SuperSport, uncle Mark from SARU said he was taking me on stage and letting me speak to the Bokke. Mommy told me to just speak from the heart, and that is exactly what I did.”

He said this was the best part of the moment and the cherry on top was when rugby player Cheslin Kolbe came on stage and hung his medal around Desmond’s neck.

“I gave the medal back because I did not earn it and Cheslin worked so hard for it. And then just taking photos with all the players and chatting to them a bit.”

Koolen became the toast of the town after his rendition of the ‘Feel Good Song’ by James Brown for his school production caused a whirlwind on social media.

“I have been on the radio a few times, on television shows, in the newspaper and magazines. Overseas TV has shared stuff about me, and so many people asked to take pictures with me. It’s been cool, but I’m still just me. I still go to school and do homework, and all my drama and soccer and play playstation when I get a chance.”

Desmond Koolen, carried by Siya Kolisi alongside his mother, Adele Koolen.

He credits his love for the stage for his huge confidence, “I have been working hard with my drama and vocal coaches to build my confidence. And I was at SA Champs recently and all that performance gave me such a boost of confidence. I also really love being in front of the crowd and just making people smile, and that boosts my confidence.”