The tight-knit, handball-mad city of Celje takes immense pride in the young products of its talent factory at RK Celje Pivovarna Laško, thus, after the success of launching the careers of Gasper and Gal, there was much expectation on the shoulders of Mai, 16 and nine years the junior, respectively, of his two brothers.
But right from the off, it is clear that Mai, who scored the first 15 EHF Champions League goals of his career last season, is out to realise his own dreams, "It was my wish that one day I could play for the first team in my club, my hometown club," he says.
That is not to say, however, that he is not interested in seeking the guidance of his brothers as he develops. Having Veszprém's Gasper and Nexe's Gal there for advice has been an advantage, "We talk about handball all the time. After each match I speak with my brothers."
"They encourage and motivate me." adds the scorer of 52 goals at the M20 EHF EURO 2024.
Another Celje alumnus, Domen Makuc, remembers how the little brother of his teammates was talked about as a real prospect in the youth system, but has seen the youngster grow, "He was maybe a little shy, but now probably not so much with his peers!"
If there was any doubt about Mai's confidence, one should only listen to his ambitions in handball. The right back says one of his main goals is "trying to become even better than my brothers - even more successful."
And who could doubt the new star who says, "I never give up"?
Click here, or hit play on the video below to watch Mai Marguc - Talent runs in the family.
