The Rutherford Primary School’s two aerobics teams – the Pink Jets and the Rock-ettes, both topped the NSW Schoolaerobics competition in Sutherland over the weekend.

The meet-up challenged teams to design a fast-paced, two minute routine that incorporated a variety of “compulsories” – moves that each routine has to tick off.

The Jets, which is fielded by students in years five and six, thought they were going down to greater Sydney’s Glenhaven Public. 

“But they called out third, and then second, and we realised we were in with a chance,” Pink Jet Tianna Sadaj said.

“We were so excited when they called us out.”

Tianna said that while she felt the other teams either outgunned or matched her team in skill, the Jets won on their energy and teamwork. The Rock-ettes, which is comprised of younger performers from years three, four and five, triumphed over long-term rivals New Lambton South.

“They came back really strong,” Rock-ette Ella Dick said.

“It was a relief to beat them,” teammate Reese O’Donnell added.

The victories propel Rutherford’s teams into the national competition, which will be held in the Gold Coast on August 6. In the 10 years the school has competed in Schoolaerobics, 2016 will mark its ninth appearance in the nationals. They have taken  the gold three times.

Aerobics program co-ordinator and coach of the Jets, Ainslie Ledwos, said the consistently high levels of performance were the result of pure dedication.

“They train long hours, they practice at home,” she said.

“Every lunch time, before school, even school holidays.”