Cleo Gadaleta: From School Aerobics to the World Stage

In October 2025, Cleo represented Australia at the FISAF International World Championships in Prague, achieving an incredible 6th place. Competing in Junior Grande division, Cleo showcased her dedication, resilience, and passion for aerobics - a journey that began in Year 7 and has taken her from school competitions to the pinnacle of international sport.

Cleo reflects on her inspiring story, the challenges she overcame, and what lies ahead for the talented athlete.

When and how did your journey in aerobics begin?

My aerobics journey began in Year 7. I competed in cheerleading for seven years prior and found that aerobics was the closest sport that the school offered. I then competed in the school aerobics stream from Years 7-11. In Year 11, I was asked by my friend if I would like to join an international team at her club as they were looking for someone my age. Unfortunately, the 2024 World Championships were cancelled, but I received a spot on the same international team in 2025, and luckily, we qualified for Worlds.

What do you like about aerobics?

I have always been very active and as I am a motivated athlete I feel as though the sport helps me to continue to push myself. I also like the sense of community and the supportive environment of each club and at competitions.  

Do you belong to a club outside of school aerobics?

I have been a member of Activ8 Sport Aerobics Club since 2024. I was awarded Junior Club Captain this year.  

You had to have surgery on your ankle earlier this year - did that set you back in your goals for aerobics?

At the beginning of the year, I had surgery after I tore the ligaments in my left ankle at training. At the time I was worried that I would not be able to compete for the rest of the season and, overall, not be able to qualify for the World Championships. I still attended every training session and learnt the choreography and arm movements by watching, ensuring that when my physiotherapist said I could train again, I would not be behind. I always had the goal of making it to the Junior State Championships to qualify for Nationals; however, I had to stand at the back of the stage and could not compete. My first competition this year was the National Championships, which proved very mentally challenging as I worked through self-doubt and tried to train to get back to where I was before my injury.

What does aerobics training involve?

Aerobics training involves heavy cardio training as well as technique through skills such as jumps as well as strength training to improve height of jumps and flexibility.  

How have you balanced your commitment to aerobics with Year 12 study?

Term 3 has been very challenging to juggle the changes of training in preparation for the world championships however through close work with my House Leader and Mentor Teacher I have been able to mostly stay on track and finish my assignments on time to ensure that when I leave I do not have any outstanding work. In saying that, late nights and coming to school early on my late starts have helped me stay on track to finish my assignments early.

How does it feel to have made it to the FISAF International World Championships?

It feels both rewarding and surreal. My team has been through multiple injuries and setbacks this year so to see my team reach our goal of being able to compete for our country reflects our hard work and commitment. I feel so lucky to have this opportunity. When I first injured my ankle, I didn’t even think I would be able to compete at the National Championships, so seeing my growth and finally achieving my goal has been a dream.  

Can you see aerobics being a part of your long-term future – perhaps a career path?  

100%. I am hoping to coach aerobics next year as well as continue to compete for many years to come. In the future I would love to be a commentator at a competition and potentially even become qualified as a judge.

What are you looking to study next year?

I am hoping to be accepted into a Bachelor of Physiotherapy, continuing my love for sport and movement. Working closely with physiotherapists this year has reinforced my reasons for wanting to pursue this passion.  

Who have been important people in helping you achieve in aerobics?

The most important people throughout my journey have been my coaches. My current coach, Katie Cummings, has helped me improve my aerobic ability and has worked with me over the past two years to help me reach my goal. My family has also been very supportive throughout my aerobics journey; they always show up and push me outside of my comfort zone to improve. Within school, my former coach, Zara Toffoli (Class of 2020), and teachers, Mrs Toker, Mrs Puntillo, and Mrs Black, have helped me build my confidence and motivation to continue pushing myself in the sport.  

What have you enjoyed about being part of the College’s aerobics program?

The supportive community that each athlete creates.

How do you think your Ignatian education has helped you in this pursuit?

My Ignatian education has helped me to remember to stay humble and use my gifts to assist others. I find joy in coaching younger athletes and hope to pursue this next year by returning as a coach to help the younger generation learn the lessons and skills I gained through the Saint Ignatius' College aerobics program.