Wallington coach and captain Matt Sampson-Barnes has battled a rare bacterial infection for nearly three years

The Bellarine cricket community has rallied around an A2 captain and coach who has been battling a rare bacterial infection for nearly three years.

Wallington captain Matt Sampson-Barnes with Inverleigh skipper Henry Collins. Picture: Mark Heenan Media.

The Bellarine cricket community is rallying around an A2 coach, captain and father of two battling a rare and serious bacterial infection.

Matt Sampson-Barnes had been a “fit and active tradie” before he was hospitalised just before Christmas in December, 2022 with necrotising fasciitis, according to a new gofundme page set up by his Wallabies teammate and president, Marc Occhipinti.

“It came on without warning, without injury, and without any of the typical causes,” Occhipinti said.

He said Sampson-Barnes had since been “navigating a very tough road with quiet strength and resilience”.

Wallington captain Matt Sampson-Barnes. Picture: Mark Wilson

The Englishman has managed to handle his condition – enduring 43 surgeries including 39 on his leg and over 100 days in hospital – while skippering the Wallabies to an A2 grand final in 2024-25.

There have also been multiple ICU stays, more than 15 emergency department visits, one life-threatening episode and ongoing pain and limited mobility, especially in his leg and arm.

“Over the last two and a half years, they’ve faced enormous challenges due to Matt’s unexpected and ongoing health battle,” Occhipinti said.

“He’s continuing to attend regular hospital appointments and work toward recovery, but it’s been a long, complex journey without a clear end date.

“We’re reaching out to invite those who can to lend a hand in helping them stay steady during this time.”

Sampson-Barnes, who has also undergone four surgeries on an arm, has two children, Billie, 6, and Alby, 4.

Sampson-Barnes with Inverleigh skipper Henry Collins before the A2 grand final. Picture: Mark Heenan Media.

He has continued to work part time where he can, but ongoing surgeries and medical setbacks have made it difficult.

“Despite their efforts and careful financial management, this extended situation has placed a significant strain on the family’s resources,” he said.

“Support from government services is minimal, and savings have been gradually depleted after years of managing high care needs, medical travel, and day-to-day costs.”

Occhipinti encouraged the cricket and wider community to contribute to give the family some “breathing room”, for basic living costs like groceries, bills and medical expenses.

“They’re not asking for luxuries — just a little help to keep things steady and allow them to focus on what matters most: health, healing, and their two beautiful kids,” he said.

“If you’re in a position to contribute, it would mean the world. If not, simply sharing their story is just as powerful.

“They’re a family who have always given what they could to others — and now it’s our turn to give a little back.”

Go to: gofundme.com/f/matt-jess-family-support

Originally published as Wallington coach and captain Matt Sampson-Barnes has battled a rare bacterial infection for nearly three years