The U16s team and club captain for the Southlakes Juniors Rugby League Football Club at Dora Creek tore the ligament off a finger in his right hand during a game against Glendale but instead of adding himself to the injuries list, or even telling anybody, the stoic young player went on to a replay a few days later but had to retire hurt after fracturing the tibia in his right leg.

"It's put me out of play for the rest of the season," wheelchair-bound Mathie said.

"Because of my hand I can't even use crutches. I just love footy, and never miss training which I enjoy as much as a game."

Mathie, who started with Dora Creek in the U8s and whose ambition is to become a professional, was picked to train last season with the Knights-owned Central Coast Centurions.

But Mathie's injury cloud has a silver lining in the form of personal trainer, Steve Bennett of Dora Creek-based Absolute Health and Fitness.

Absolute Health and Fitness became one of the club's sponsors two months ago and now Mathie spends several sessions a week getting specialist attention in the company's well-equipped Dora Creek gymnasium.

"Steve has offered to get me fit enough for next season free of charge, which is wonderful. I can't play this season but with Steve's help I can not only get good rehab I can really work on getting stronger and fitter than I was before," Mathie said.