Fiji’s junior American football star, Makayla Sukhu, is eager to make her mark in the sport, inspired by her mother’s legacy in the Australian Football League (AFL). Vilisi Sukhu was a member of the inaugural women’s Fiji Vonu team in 2014, and her achievements serve as a motivating force for Makayla.
“My mother is the main reason why I decided to take up this sport,” Makayla stated, reflecting on her early passion for AFL. She emphasizes the importance of team cohesion and endurance, noting that the unique combination of skills required in AFL sets it apart from other sports.
In her pursuit to advance the sport in Fiji, Makayla expressed her ambition to help her sister engage in AFL as well. “It’s a multi-skill sport that can be challenging initially, but with dedication, anyone can succeed,” she affirmed. Encouragement from her mother to stay focused on her goals keeps her motivated alongside her teammates.
Apart from AFL, Makayla recently showcased her versatility in sports by winning the Women’s Candidate Master (WCM) title at the 45th World Chess Olympiad held in Budapest, Hungary. Competing against 193 countries, she emerged as the youngest participant to score 3.5 out of 7 games, marking a significant achievement in her chess career.
Additionally, Sukhu is an active netball player, participating for Suva Grammar School and the Lomaiviti club in development grades. Striking a balance between academics and athletics has been a challenge, but she finds solace in sports. “Sport is great for relieving stress and providing peace of mind amidst schoolwork,” she noted.
Makayla attributes her successes to divine support and the unwavering encouragement from her family, particularly her parents, who have always motivated her every step of the way.
This story is a testament to the power of familial inspiration and the potential for young athletes to thrive in multiple disciplines. With her enthusiasm for AFL and a strong commitment to promoting the sport in Fiji, Makayla Sukhu could very well be a role model for future generations of female athletes.
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