Fiji’s Junior Vonu Under-17 full forward, Makayla Sukhu, is inspired to pursue a career in Australian Football League (AFL) following in the footsteps of her mother, Vilisi Sukhu, who represented Fiji as part of the inaugural women’s Fiji Vonu team in 2014.
Makayla credits her mother as her primary motivation for taking up the sport. “AFL is a different sport, and my mum was the main reason why I took up this sport because she represented Fiji,” she shared. Having enjoyed AFL since a young age, Makayla has learned the importance of team bonding and endurance in the game.
Expressing her aspirations for the sport’s growth in Fiji, she stated, “This sport has really brought out key factors because AFL is different sports in one. I hope to support my sister in playing this sport as well.”
Makayla described AFL as a multi-skill and challenging sport, but one that rewards perseverance. “My mum always advises me to keep pushing hard and to focus on my goals while encouraging my teammates,” she remarked.
In addition to her dedication to AFL, Makayla recently excelled at the 45th World Chess Olympiad held in Budapest, Hungary, where she earned the Women’s Candidate Master (WCM) title, making her one of the youngest participants from Fiji. With a record of 3.5 out of 7 in a competition involving 193 countries, she gained considerable recognition. Alongside her achievements in AFL and chess, Makayla also plays netball for Suva Grammar School and the Lomaiviti club.
Balancing sports and academics, she acknowledged the challenge of managing her schoolwork while remaining active in sports, noting, “Sport is good as it gives you peace of mind and relieves your stress.” She also expressed gratitude for her parents’ unwavering support in her sporting endeavors.
Makayla Sukhu’s journey highlights the exciting potential of young athletes in Fiji, showcasing a growing interest in AFL and the determination to balance academics and sports. Her story not only inspires her peers but also reflects the supportive environment provided by family and community, fostering the growth of sports in Fiji.
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