Features

By Eric Velazquez | Photos by John Russo

Teammates Suzanne Stonebarger and Michelle More spend their summers playing in the sand—and quickening pulses—on the AVP Tour

PUBLISHED: April 14, 2008

On the Association of Volleyball Professionals (AVP) Tour, Michelle More and Suzanne Stonebarger are collectively known as Team Gorgeous. Perhaps never in the history of sports has there been a more appropriate team moniker. Doubt us? Just look at the pics.

To some people, their team name may seem arrogant. But they didn't choose it as much as they embraced it. The name started as a joke among tournament staff before catching fire with the media and fans. "I think it's because they forgot our names and wanted to be nice," More says. "But we don't take it seriously. It's just for fun."

Now, we could wax philosophical on great genetics and heaven-sent beauty, but the physiques you see on these pages were earned. More than a decade of patrolling the hardwood, followed by another handful of years in the sand, have built two of the best bods on the AVP Tour. And that's saying something, since volleyball players are among the leanest, most explosive athletes on the planet.

Team Gorgeous isn't all fun, though; they mean business when the ball is put in play. In 2007, More and Stonebarger finished 11th in total points, an impressive feat when you consider they've played on the Tour together for only four seasons. Their next major goal? To pass, set and swing their way into the top five.

Michelle More
Birthdate: June 12, 1981
Birthplace: Torrance, California
Current residence: Redondo Beach, California
Occupation: Realtor and loan broker
Height: 6'1"
Weight: 145 pounds
To contact: morestonebarger.com

M&F: So we'll assume that your body is no accident. What's a typical week of training like for you?

MM: You have to be in the best shape of your life to compete at this level. An average week usually consists of 4–5 volleyball workouts for at least 21⁄2 hours each, lifting weights twice a week, Pilates or yoga, sprints on the track once a week, a sand footwork and plyometrics workout on the beach, and at least a 30-minute sand run. In beach volleyball, it's vital to be lean and strong—you don't want too much bulk holding you down—so I focus a lot on being quick and explosive.

M&F: Since you're a performance athlete, I'm sure nutrition is key. When you're being good, what types of foods do you focus on?

MM: I focus on lean proteins, such as skinless chicken breast, turkey and fish. It's hard to get enough protein in my diet, so I usually rely on protein smoothies as well. I definitely do not agree with cutting carbs completely because they're too important when you work out as much as we do.

M&F: What are some of your favorite "guilty" foods or drinks?

MM: I usually treat myself to homemade brownies or chocolate-chip cookies a couple of times a month. It all has to do with moderation. I try to be very strict during the week, but I'm a little more relaxed on the weekends. If you work out really hard and eat healthy, a couple of brownies won't kill you!

M&F: Is it weird or off-putting at all to be seen as a sex symbol?

MM: I think all the women who play on the Tour are sex symbols in some regard. We all work really hard to stay in shape and play in little bikinis, so it's a natural progression. It doesn't bother me at all. I think a strong and fit body is a beautiful and sexy thing, so why not embrace it?

M&F: Since we're talking physiques, is there anything you want to say about Suzanne's?

MM: I would have to say Suzanne has a great butt and abs. No matter how many sit-ups or lunges I did, my abs and butt would never look like that.