MARIST Brothers High School’s head boy, Andrew Sukhu, is preparing to represent Fiji for the first time in the 2024 AFL Pacific Cup in Australia.
Originally from Vanua Levu, Sukhu found inspiration in his younger brother, who was part of the South Pacific team that defeated some of Australia’s top clubs.
“I saw my smaller brother, he was part of the South Pacific team that went and beat the top clubs in Australia,” Sukhu said.
The road to representing Fiji has not been easy for the 17-year-old student. Balancing his commitments as head boy, Year 13 exams, and AFL training has required careful juggling.
“In terms of preparation, it’s hard because I must balance it with schoolwork, and this week was the toughest because we have exams,” Sukhu explained.
Sukhu is embracing the diverse skills required for AFL.
“I do enjoy playing because it really is a good sport with so many aspects of other sports.”
Facing seasoned teams in Australia brings nerves, but Sukhu believes trust in his teammates will help.
“There will be fear, but when you continue to play and trust in your team members, that fear will fade away.
“Once that fear fades away, that’s when everything just falls into place.”
Sukhu’s biggest supporters are his family, who have been with him through the challenges of daily travel and financial pressures.
As Sukhu and his teammates look forward to the Pacific Cup, he shared a heartfelt message for Fijians supporters: “To all Fijian supporters out there, please do pray for the team. We need your prayers and blessings.”
Meanwhile the Pacific Cup will be held in Brisbane in Australia on the 14th of November.
