Our journey began in Greece in 2018, in the world of water polo. Max had come to play professionally in Greece, and as a fellow water polo player, Mado was part of the same close-knit community. We first met around the pools, where our friendship quickly grew. Before long, Max expressed his feelings, and from that moment, we’ve been side by side through every step—supporting each other through the highs and lows, including the challenges of long distance as our paths took us to different places. We reunited when Max returned to Greece for another season, and what started with water polo has turned into a lifelong adventure. We can't wait to celebrate the next chapter with you!

This past December, just before New Year's, Max planned a surprise that Mado would never forget. During our winter getaway to the Italian Alps, he told Mado to get ready for an adventure. Expecting a mountain hike, she had no idea what was really in store. Instead, Max had arranged a breathtaking helicopter ride over the iconic Three Peaks. But the biggest surprise came mid-flight when the pilot landed on a secluded mountaintop overlooking the peaks. There, in front of a cross, Max got down on one knee and asked the big question. Of course, Mado said yes! The rest of the day was filled with joy, taking in the breathtaking views, and simply enjoying the moment together in the magical winter landscape.

Max grew up in Long Beach, California, in a big family with three siblings. From a young age, he had a passion for sports, but water polo quickly became his true calling. His talent led him to UCLA, where he played at the collegiate level before embarking on a professional career. Over the years, he has competed for top teams in Greece and Italy and proudly represented his national team, securing a bronze medal at the Paris 2024 Olympics. Today, he lives in Brescia, Italy, where he plays for AN Brescia and fully embraces the Italian food and lifestyle. Mado grew up in Piraeus, Greece and has one sister. She competed in various sports from a young age, including sailing and swimming, before dedicating herself to water polo, which she played for nine years. She went on to study at the University of Piraeus and has since built her career in sports. Now based in England, she works for Nottingham Forest Football Club and enjoys all the little quirks of English life.