Q&A: Grace Jale off to study in the States

Grace Jale hopes to be an Olympian one day. She represented New Zealand at the U20 Women’s World Cup earlier this year and will head to the States early next year to study. Grace features on the blog as part of Fijian Language Week.

Tell us a little bit about yourself

I’m 19 years old, born on the 10th of April 1999 and I stand at 182cm tall.

I have two older brothers and two younger brothers, all of which were born and raised in Auckland. I graduated from Mount Albert Grammar School in 2017 and I started playing football when I was 8 years old.

How did you get into football?

My dad and my older brothers played football so we’ve kicked the ball around in the backyard from a very young age but I didn’t officially join my first club (Bay Olympic) until I was 8.

What advice would you give aspiring athletes?

Remember why you started this all, enjoy it, but just know that it will require hard work.

How did you manage football, school and life?

Well to be honest, I’m still trying to find that balance but I think the most important thing is to sort out priorities and manage time effectively.

What are some of your most memorable moments?

My most memorable moments were during the World Cup, walking through the tunnel onto the pitch and singing the national anthem in front of the crowd. I can still remember every little detail, it gives me goosebumps every time I think about it!

What are your interests outside of football?

I really enjoy surfing, skating, biking, anything outdoors really.

If you could invite five people to dinner (here or no longer here with us), who would it be and why?

Michael Jackson, David Beckham, Bob Marley, Whitney Houston, and Meghan Markle.

Plans and aspirations for the future?

I’m going to study in the US at the start of next year and I hope to become an Olympian one day.

Photo credit: In the back of the net football blog

Beyond the Mark

Sharing athletes' and administrators' personal achievements on top of their sporting success