Article By: Capt Kyle Ho, RPOU(W) Operations Officer 2
The Real Property Operations Unit (West) (RPOU(W)) continues to play a supporting role in the planning, coordination, and execution of combat sports initiatives across 1 Canadian Mechanized Brigade Group (1 CMBG) in Edmonton. Through close collaboration with Personnel Support Programs (PSP), leadership guidance from 3rd Canadian Division (3 Can Div), and logistical support from the 3rd Canadian Division Training Centre (3 CDTC) led by Sgt Michael Schiestel from the Close‑Quarter Combative Instructor (CQCI) Cell. RPOU(W) remains committed to fostering safe, and competitive training opportunities that enhance soldier resilience. Over the past three years, RPOU(W) has been involved in key events including the Western Grappling Regional, led by PSP, and Exercise RELENTLESS WARRIOR 2026 (Ex RW 26), hosted by 3 Can Div. The successful execution of these events required close coordination among multiple stakeholders, encompassing safety oversight, officiating, and the development and enforcement of competition rules.
RPOU(W) has been help with organizing seminars to keep the 1 CMBG Base Grappling Team engaged since 2023. A significant milestone occurred last summer with the recognition of Professor Carlos Alexandra Rodrigues of Frontline Sherwood Park, who concluded his tenure supporting the brigade’s grappling program and moving to the U.S.A. to continue his journey to promote his art. On behalf of RPOU(W), a Certificate of Appreciation from LCol (Ret’d) Johnathan Hallett was presented to Professor Rodrigues in recognition of his enduring contributions to combat sports from 2023 – 2025.
As one chapter closed, another began. RPOU(W) welcomed Professor Hitalo from Frontline Sherwood Park as the incoming guest instructor, ensuring continuity in training quality and strengthening the long‑standing relationship between the Canadian Armed Forces (CAF) and the local martial arts community. This partnership remains essential in promoting combat sports as a safe activity within the Army context. A core contribution of RPOU(W) is the provision of qualified referees and CQCIs from the HQ. This expertise ensures competitions are conducted in accordance with CQCI rules, allowing participants to compete with confidence while minimizing risk.
Other than the supporting roles, members from the Royal Canadian Air Force (RCAF) and Construction Engineers (CEs) from Real Property Operations Detachment (RPOD) Dundurn formed Team North, alongside members from Yellowknife and Winnipeg. Their presence demonstrated the growing reach of combat sports beyond traditional Army operational units. Sgt Mikael Kovacs from Dundurn CE Flt earned bronze in his division, while Commander (Cdr) Michael MacIntyre, 1 Canadian Air Division Headquarters (1 CAD HQ) Chaplain, captured gold in his bracket. Their performances highlighted how the RCAF and CEs continue to strive and excel within the competition environment.
RPOU(W) works closely with Ms. Alyson Hodgson, CFB Edmonton Sports Coordinator, who shared a clear vision of seeing grappling grow regionally and eventually gain national‑level representation in the near future. In her role as the CFB Edmonton Sports Coordinator, Ms Hodgson was implicated not only in supporting grappling initiatives but across all sports within CFB Edmonton and throughout the Prairie region.
Over the years, she ensured the CFB Edmonton Grappling Team maintained regular access to the Unarmed Combat Room, and she played a central role in organizing major sporting events such as Exercise STRONG CONTENDER (Ex SC). Her dedication, and professionalism made her an inseparable part of the military sports community.
Tragically, Ms. Hodgson passed away following her battle with cancer shortly after the closing ceremony of Ex RW 26. She is survived by her husband and two young children. The news of her passing came as a profound shock to all who knew and worked with her, and her loss is deeply felt across 3 Can Div, 3 CDSG, 1 CMBG, RPOU(W) and the wider PSP community. While the community continues to grieve from the sudden loss of a close friend, the connections she forged and the tireless dedication she showed in keeping CAF members active through sport will never be forgotten. In her memory and in honour of the friendships she built, CAF combat sports will continue to grow, driven by committed PSP staffs such as Ms. Alyson Hodgson and Mr. Kevin Malahy, and carried forward within 3 Can Div. Together, we will move forward while remembering her lasting impact on soldiers and the military sports community.
Rest in peace and thank you for your service.
CHIMO!