Makayla Sukhu, a promising full forward for the Fiji Junior Vonu Under-17 team, aspires to emulate her mother, Vilisi Sukhu, who was a key player on the inaugural women’s Fiji Vonu team in 2014. Inspired by her mother’s legacy in Australian Football League (AFL), Makayla eagerly took up the sport, citing her mother’s influence as a driving force behind her passion.
The young athlete finds enjoyment in AFL’s multi-faceted nature, appreciating the significance of team bonding and endurance within the game. “I hope to motivate my sister to embrace this sport too,” Makayla expressed, demonstrating her commitment to fostering a love for AFL in her family.
She recognizes the challenges of AFL but remains hopeful about its growth in Fiji. Makayla described the sport as “multi-skill” and emphasized its challenging yet rewarding aspects. Encouraged by her mother’s advice to focus on her goals and support her teammates, she aims to make a positive impact both on and off the field.
In addition to her AFL pursuits, Sukhu has also achieved success in another realm; she recently claimed the title of Women’s Candidate Master (WCM) at the 45th World Chess Olympiad held in Budapest, where she outperformed numerous competitors, securing 3.5 points out of 7.
Balancing her studies, netball commitments with Suva Grammar School, and training for AFL, Makayla values sports for providing mental clarity and stress relief. She acknowledges the unwavering support of her parents, expressing gratitude for their encouragement throughout her athletic journey.
This combination of dedication to sports and academic excellence positions Makayla as a role model for young athletes, demonstrating that with passion and support, one can excel in multiple fields. Her story is a hopeful reminder of the potential growth of Australian Football in Fiji, alongside her achievements in various sports.
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