Makayla Sukhu, a promising player for the Fiji Junior Vonu Under-17 team, is inspired to pursue a career in Australian Football League (AFL) following in the footsteps of her mother, Vilisi Sukhu, who was a member of the inaugural women’s Fiji Vonu team in 2014.
Growing up, Makayla was motivated by her mother’s achievements in the sport, stating, “AFL is a different sport, and my mum was the main reason why I took up this sport because she represented Fiji.” Her passion for AFL has only intensified, as she emphasizes the importance of team bonding and endurance in excelling at the game. “This sport has really brought out key factors because AFL is different sports in one,” she shared.
Makayla is also optimistic about the growth of AFL in Fiji and wants to support her sister in the sport. She described AFL as a challenging, multi-skill sport that offers personal and athletic development. Reflecting on her journey, she mentioned, “My mum told me to keep pushing hard as long as I focus on my goals and encourage my team-mates.”
In addition to AFL, Sukhu garnered attention for her impressive performance at the 45th World Chess Olympiad in Budapest, Hungary, where she secured the Women’s Candidate Master (WCM) title. Competing against players from 193 countries, she achieved a score of 3.5 out of 7, becoming the youngest member of her team.
Balancing sports and academics is a challenge for Sukhu, who also plays netball for Suva Grammar School and the Lomaiviti club. She remarked, “Sport is good as it gives you a piece of mind and relieves your stress from other things like schoolwork.”
Makayla expressed gratitude for the support of her parents, highlighting their unwavering encouragement as a crucial element in her success. Through her dedication and enthusiasm for sports, she offers a hopeful vision for aspiring athletes in Fiji, encouraging them to pursue their dreams and passions.
This story not only showcases a young athlete’s ambitions but also reflects the potential for the growth of AFL in Fiji, fueled by community support and family encouragement.
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