Keeping Matilda’s Name Alive

If you have followed our journey at Maccabi FC, you know that for years, our mascot—the "Macca-bee"—was nameless. That changed in the wake of the heartbreak at Bondi. We named our bee Matilda, in memory of Matilda Britvan, while holding the memories of all fifteen victims in our hearts. May their memories always be a blessing.

There was a reason this name felt so right, almost destined. Our Club President, Ari, learned that at home, Matilda’s family had always affectionately called her "Matilda Bee." When he heard that, it resonated deeply. It wasn’t just a tribute; it was a reflection of who she was to those who loved her most.

A Journey of Purpose

This past Labor Day long weekend, my wife Debbie and I traveled to Sydney to see the Matildas in action and support Melbourne Victory. But the trip held a deeper purpose. Ari had long envisioned presenting the Britvan family with club shirts bearing Matilda’s name.

Before leaving, I stopped at Sportsmart Moorabbin to have two jerseys prepared. When the staff heard the story behind the shirts, they quietly refused payment—a small but beautiful act of solidarity that set the tone for the weekend.

A Shared Language of Loss

On Sunday morning, we arranged to meet the Britvans in Bondi. For those who don’t know my own history, I belong to the same "club" as Michael and Valentyna. Nearly sixteen years ago, I lost my youngest son, Reagan, at age fourteen. I know the weight of the air in that room; I know the unique, sharp edges of a grief that never truly leaves.

Before the meeting, Debbie and I visited the memorial overlooking Bondi Beach. Standing there, under the shadow of that infamous bridge, the feeling was a heavy mixture of sadness, frustration, and disbelief. I had intended to leave one of the shirts there, but I felt strongly that I needed to meet the family first.

The Meeting

When we finally sat down with Michael, Valentyna, and their children, Vadmyra and Summer, there were no strangers—only hugs and teary eyes. We shared the stories of our children and our journeys. I told them that while their pain is uniquely theirs, they are not walking this path alone.

When I presented the shirts, young Summer immediately reached for one and put it on. It was a moment of pure, raw connection. Michael took the second shirt, choosing to keep it close rather than having it left at the public memorial. Seeing the name "Matilda" on our club colors—honoring the girl they knew as "Matilda Bee"—held a significance that surpassed any trophy or title.

A Mitzvah of Remembrance

I understand the deep, aching desire to build a legacy for a child—to ensure that as time inevitably fades the world’s memory, their name remains spoken. Having Matilda so visibly connected to our club feels like a mitzvah we could never have envisaged before Bondi.

I ask you to tell this story. Tell it to your children, your friends, and your teammates. Keep Matilda’s name alive in our community. It is the very least we can do to honor her and all the victims of Bondi.

BDE

Kevin Milstein General Manager, Maccabi FC Caulfield