There is an assumption that singer/songwriter Ricki-Lee Coulter can dance because of her entertainment background but Jarryd Byrne said she was starting from the beginning like all contestants on Dancing With The Stars.
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
$0/
(min cost $0)
or signup to continue reading
The former Wagga boy has been paired with the Australian songstress for the 14th season of the reality show and the couple's debut on Tuesday night has cemented them as ones to watch.
Jarryd and Ricki-Lee hit the dancefloor last with a sassy cha cha to Little Mix's Move, which the judges said channelled her inner Beyonce and showed her genuine star quality.
They scored eights and a seven from the judges for a total score of 31 and fifth position on the leader board but is it enough for this duo to take out the coveted mirror ball at the end of the competition?
"It was definitely tough going on last in the evening but Ricki was fantastic," Jarryd said.
"I'm extremely impressed with how she danced.
"We are in the position now where we are in a good place to grow.
"I'd love to hold that mirror ball at the end."
Jarryd is performing in the stage version of Strictly Ballroom, which closes in Sydney next week and opens in Melbourne in January.
He is also teaching classes in Sydney.
Next week's contemporary routine, which is part of the "memorable moments" week, will require an emotional connection between the two dance partners.
Week three will see the couples dancing to songs chosen by the audience and Jarryd said that could present some challenges.
"You want the dance to sit right with that track," he said.
"I love being challenged with choreography but it does add a lot of pressure.
"This show will always throw a curve ball at you."
Jarryd said Home and Away actor Tai Hara could win the competition but said the audience should keep an eye on AFL player David Rodan and actress Lynne McGranger.
Odds have Ricki-Lee to win the competition at $6 behind David Rodan and Kyly Clarke.
Keep Jarryd and Ricki-Lee in the competition by calling 1902 557 718 or texting RICKI-LEE to 191 777.