- "Rapid Professional Advancement": Grgic finds insufficient time for contemplation
Young handball star Marko Grgic from ThSV Eisenach is still trying to wrap his head around his meteoric rise. "It's been like a whirlwind, absolutely insane. Everything's moving so fast I barely have a moment to take it all in," the 20-year-old told "Freies Wort".
His journey began with his traineeship at Sparkasse, progressed to playing for Eisenach in the Bundesliga, and culminated in an unexpected call-up to the national team in May. "I hardly get a chance to think," shared the backcourt player. Since the Paris Summer Games, he's also garnered an Olympic silver medal at home.
His objective for the season: Maintain League Status
In less than a fortnight, the "Rookie of the Year" will be back on league duty. Last season, rookie team Eisenach was initially predicted to be the first to get relegated, but they secured their place in the league early with a commendable season. Their aim this time around is to survive in the Bundesliga.
"We need to stay grounded. I believe we'll be right in the mix for survival," said Grgic. ThSV commences the season on September 7 with a home game against Berlin's Füchse, a big challenge. The Füchse placed second last season and gave champions SC Magdeburg a tough time.
Six Seconds Against France
According to Grgic, the league has only gotten stronger. "We can't underestimate the newcomers Bietigheim and Potsdam," said the 12-time national team player.
Grgic should find additional motivation from his most remarkable Olympic experience. "It only lasted six seconds," he said. With six seconds remaining against France, the hosts were in the lead by a goal. "I wasn't really paying attention. Suddenly we won the ball back, scored an equalizer – and everyone around me started cheering," shared Grgic. Germany eventually won the semi-final in overtime.
Grgic acknowledged that other teams in the league, such as Bietigheim and Potsdam, cannot be underestimated due to their strength. Despite the meteoric rise in his career, Marko Grgic remains focused on maintaining ThSV Eisenach's league status, viewing it as a major challenge.
