"BEING CALLED 'MUSE' BOTHERS ME"

Leila Barros, 26 years old, was chosen best player of the Volleyball Grand Prix that Brazil won in HongKong last Sunday.

EPOCA: You were chosen as the best player of the world, how do you feel right now?

LEILA BARROS: I was very satisfied with my performance, but there is no question that I must share my victory with my friend, Fofao who also played well.

EPOCA: Is it true that you almost failed to play for the Championship because of sore shoulders?

LEILA: I suffered excessively during the match. I had to undergo intensive conditioning to recuperate. After the final game against Russia, I had supper with the girls, I wanted to join them and dance but I came back to the hotel because my shoulders and feet ached.

EPOCA: After a bad start that saw the team lose 3 straight games, how were you able to make a turn around and conquer the title?

LEILA: The training schedules were not ideal, but we were able to adjust during the competition. All were focused on claiming the title.

EPOCA:

LEILA: We proved that we have a strong team and that we're one of the favorites. We need to continue training to keep our physical form and spirits up for the World Grand Prix. Everybody wants to win for Brazil. In Japan, we will witness the comeback of Ana Moser and Fernanda Venturini, our team will be stronger than ever.

EPOCA: Who do you think will be the most dangerous opponents?

LEILA: Cuba, Russia and China are the biggest obstacles, but the Cubans are the most dangerous.

EPOCA: What are your plans for the future?

LEILA: To play in the Grand Prix and the Olynpic Games in Sydney. After that, I want to be a mother and to ______________________, but I don't plan to abandon volleyball, only to stop playing for the national team.

EPOCA: The title "muse" bothers you?

LEILA: I have no idea how it started, only that it is an affectionate and gentle ____________ of the public. I prefer to be recognized as a good player.