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From Chess to AFL: Makayla Sukhu’s Inspiring Journey

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Fiji’s Makayla Sukhu, a talented full forward for the Junior Vonu Under-17 AFL team, aspires to follow in her mother’s path in the Australian Football League. Her mother, Vilisi Sukhu, had the honor of being a member of the inaugural women’s Fiji Vonu team in 2014, which sparked Makayla’s passion for the sport.

Makayla credits her mother as a significant influence in her decision to pursue AFL, stating, “AFL is a different sport, and my mum was the main reason why I took up this sport because she represented Fiji.” Reflecting on her journey, she expressed her love for the game, which she has enjoyed since childhood.

She emphasizes the importance of teamwork and endurance in AFL, pointing out that it combines various skills within one sport. “This sport has really brought out key factors because AFL is different sports in one,” she stated. She also hopes to inspire her younger sister to engage in AFL, highlighting her optimism for the sport’s future growth in Fiji. “It’s a multi-skill sport—quite challenging at first, but you’ll be able to carry through,” she explained, underscoring the sport’s potential for development.

In addition to her achievements in AFL, Sukhu notably secured the Women’s Candidate Master (WCM) title during the 45th World Chess Olympiad in Budapest, where she represented her country. Competing against 193 countries, she succeeded in winning 3.5 out of 7 games, earning her title at such a significant event.

Sukhu balances her athletic pursuits with academics, playing netball for Suva Grammar School and the Lomaiviti club. In her second year of AFL, she recognizes the challenges of managing studies alongside sports but views this balance as beneficial. “Sport is good as it gives you a piece of mind and relieves your stress from other things like schoolwork,” she notes, reflecting her mature insight into the importance of maintaining wellbeing.

Acknowledging her achievements, Sukhu expresses gratitude for the support of her parents, attributing her success to their encouragement and divine support.

This story not only highlights the promising future of young athletes in Fiji but also reflects the importance of family support and the enduring spirit of sportsmanship that can inspire others. Makayla Sukhu’s journey serves as an impressive example of how passion and hard work can lead to remarkable achievements in sports and beyond.


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