4Matty: Vosa Invitational 15 v Brittle Lions battle
Ezekia, Kylie, Maciu and Ari Vosa at Harlequin Rugby Club. Photo Credit: Stuart Walmsley
4Matty: A Night of Rugby, Resilience & Brotherhood
On the evening of Friday July 25th, under the lights of Box Hill Rugby Club, two teams will take the field — not just for glory, but for something far more powerful.
The Vosa Invitational XV will face off against the Brittle Lions in a special charity match that goes beyond the scoreboard. The game is a tribute to Maciu “Matty” Vosa, a much-loved figure in the Victorian rugby community, whose life was changed forever by a devastating spinal injury ten years ago.
For Matty, this match is more than a fundraiser — it’s a celebration of community, resilience, and rugby’s unbreakable spirit.
“This support isn’t just for me,” Matty says. “It’s for everyone who’s been part of my journey — every person who’s reminded me that I’m never alone.”
A Decade of Challenge — and Courage
Ten years ago, Matty suffered a spinal cord injury that left him unable to walk and fighting daily battles with pain, loss of sensation, and severe health complications.
“People see the wheelchair,” he explains. “But they don’t see the hidden challenges — the pain, the breathing, the blood pressure, the mental toll. Every day starts with a fight to stay positive.”
But Matty’s journey has never been about simply surviving.
It’s about living
Since his injury, he has worked relentlessly on his rehabilitation, ticking off milestones that once seemed impossible: travelling back to Fiji with his family, learning to push a manual wheelchair, and even regaining his driver’s license after eight years.
“The toughest times haven’t just tested me — they’ve taught me to be stronger than my feelings. I’ve learned to live with purpose and inspire others through their own tough times.”
Matty & Steve - BloodySlow Cup
Brotherhood Born on the Field
Among those who stepped up early in Matty’s recovery was Steve Clayton, an Adelaide-based player who took a call to pull together a team for the first Vic Masters RugbyFest.
What started as a simple ask turned into a deep and lasting bond between two men — both fighting their own battles.
“Matty’s story gave me strength at a time when I was struggling with depression,” Steve shares. “Helping him helped me. I owe him everything.”
Steve founded the Vosa Invitational XV, and since then, the squad has become a fixture at charity events, raising funds and awareness through rugby. Together, Steve and Matty have brought the rugby community together in powerful ways — including tours to New Zealand and support for Matty’s home village team in Fiji.
“This year’s match is extra special,” says Steve. “With the British Lions touring Australia, it’s the perfect moment to bring back the Brittle Lions and remind everyone why we play — to look after each other.”
A Community That Never Gave Up
From modifying his home to fundraising for medical equipment, Matty’s rugby family has stood beside him every step of the way.
“I came to Australia with no family outside of my wife,” Matty says. “But Harlequins, the Rebels, Vic Masters, the Mana Men — they became my family.”
Even during the darkest moments, rugby was there.
“Six years into recovery, I was broken — no progress, no hope. I asked myself, ‘What’s the one thing that showed me the best version of me?’ The answer was rugby.”
Through training with old mates and rediscovering that familiar team environment, Matty began to rebuild his confidence and identity. The field — and the brotherhood it brings — became his lifeline.
A Night to Remember
This year’s event promises not only a cracking game, but a post-match celebration packed with entertainment and generosity:
Live music from Jeremy Peters and DJ Maori Elvis
Fijian BBQ and classic footy feeds
Bar stocked with donated kegs from Suburban Brewery and Mountain Culture
Jersey Auction featuring signed gear from Manu Tuilagi, the Barrett brothers, Martin Johnson, and more
Raffle prizes including gym memberships, high-end appliances, wine packs, and sportswear bundles
And every cent raised will go directly toward supporting Matty’s ongoing rehab and care.
“I can’t repay the community for what they’ve given me,” says Matty. “But I’ll keep showing up. I’ll keep leading by example. I’ll keep on keepin’ on.”
Looking After Our Mates — Always
For Steve, this event — and all those that came before — comes down to one simple belief:
“You don’t leave a mate behind. Not in the army. Not on the rugby field. Not in life.”
To the players lacing up, Matty has one final message:
“Play with joy. Play with pride. And know that what you’re doing means the world — not just to me, but to everyone who knows what it means to be carried by your community.”
How You Can Help
Even if you can’t attend on the night, you can still support:
Donate to the Vosa Fund
Bid online in the jersey auction
Share Matty’s story far and wide
Know that 50% of bar proceeds go directly to the cause
Join Us
📍 Box Hill Rugby Club
📅 Friday 25th July
⏰ Kick-off: 6:00 PM
🎟️ All are welcome – bring your mates, your families, your heart.
This is more than a match.
It’s a celebration of everything rugby stands for.