Fiji’s Makayla Sukhu, a promising full forward for the Junior Vonu Under-17 team, is inspired by her mother, Vilisi Sukhu, who was a key player for the first women’s Fiji Vonu team established in 2014. Makayla credits her mother as the primary reason for her involvement in Australian Football League (AFL), emphasizing her love for the sport from a young age.
She recognizes the importance of team cohesion and endurance in AFL, stating, “This sport has really brought out key factors because AFL is different sports in one.” Makayla expresses her desire to uplift her sister’s interest in the game while fostering a broader growth of AFL within Fiji, highlighting its multifaceted nature as a challenging yet rewarding sport.
In addition to her AFL pursuits, Sukhu recently achieved significant recognition in chess, securing the Women’s Candidate Master title at the 45th World Chess Olympiad in Budapest with a commendable performance against competitors from 193 nations. Makayla also plays netball for Suva Grammar School and the Lomaiviti club, showcasing her versatility in sports.
As she navigates her second year in AFL, she balances academics and athletics, finding that sports provide her with stress relief and peace of mind. Acknowledging the support from her parents, she emphasizes their unwavering encouragement in her sporting endeavors.
This story highlights a young athlete’s determination and multifaceted talents, showcasing not only her commitment to AFL but also her accomplishments in chess and netball. With continued support and passion, Makayla Sukhu’s journey may inspire a new generation of female athletes in Fiji, driving the growth of sports in the country.
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