Article By: Capt Kyle Ho, RPOU(W) Operations Officer 2
Combative training in 1 Combat Engineer Regiment (1 CER) has experienced a strong revival over the past several years, driven by dedicated soldiers committed to preparing Sappers for the realities of the modern battlefield. What began as a grassroots initiative has evolved into a structured grappling program that emphasizes controlled aggression, resilience, and confidence under pressure.
Last summer marked a significant milestone as Professor Carlos Alexandra Rodrigues (5th degree black belt in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu), who trained at Frontline Sherwood Park, concluded his final seminar with the 1 Canadian Mechanized Brigade Group (1 CMBG) Base Grappling Team. In recognition of his outstanding contribution to soldier development and combative excellence, Professor Rodrigues was presented with a Certificate of Appreciation by the RPOU (West) Commanding Officer, Lieutenant‑Colonel (Ret’d) Johnathan Hallett. His mentorship helped establish a strong technical and cultural foundation for Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ) within the brigade.
Following this transition, Master Corporal (MCpl) Alastaire McDonald of 1 CER trained through Frontline Sherwood Park stepped into a leadership role to continue the momentum. Under his guidance, grappling training became more structured and purpose‑driven, reinforcing disciplined techniques designed to prepare Sappers for close‑quarter encounters they may face in modern operations. The program focuses on applying controlled aggression safely and professionally, while developing confidence, teamwork, and mental toughness. Historically, combative training in the Canadian Armed Forces (CAF) was tightly controlled due to concerns about injuries and a lack of qualified instructors. Over time, recruits with martial arts backgrounds began to influence a shift in approach. These like‑minded individuals became the driving force behind modern hand‑to‑hand combat concepts at their unit level, ensuring training remained both safe and tactically relevant.
Operational deployments have also played a key role in sustaining the culture. MCpl Johnson Phung, one of the key coaches from 1 CER, is currently deployed on Operation UNIFIER. While deployed, MCpl Phung met a bunch of like-minded people. Together, they acquired training mats and ensured training continuity so soldiers could continue grappling wherever the mission took them. “I was glad to see how much the martial arts community has grown,” said MCpl Phung from Operation UNIFIER. “Everywhere I went, I met like‑minded individuals, which allowed us to keep training and stay ready at all times.”
The growing visibility of the program was highlighted during the Western Grappling Regional hosted by PSP Sports Coordinator, Alyson Hodgson on 16 Oct 25 in Edmonton. Representing 1 CER, Lieutenant (Lt) Aidan Johncox, Dive Officer, captured gold in his division and earned silver in the absolute category. His success rapidly sparked greater interest within the regiment, motivating more Sappers to participate in the sport.
Building on that momentum, the 1 CER Grappling Team, led by Head Coach MCpl McDonald and Team Captain, Lt Noah Anderson, continued to grow in both size and capability. The team delivered a strong performance during Exercise RELENTLESS WARRIOR 26, hosted by 3rd Canadian Division (3 Div) from 31 Jan 26 to 1 Feb 26. Despite only a few weeks of preparation, six of the seven 1 CER competitors advanced to the semi‑finals and finals on Day 2. “I am very proud to be their coach and pleased with how well we performed with so little training,” said MCpl McDonald. “We fought hard and will take those lessons learned forward as we prepare for the next event.”
As MCpl McDonald prepares to retire later this year, leadership of the program has transitioned to Corporal (Cpl) Cody Paulson of 1 CER Explosive Ordnance Disposal Troop. Stepping into the role of Head Coach, Cpl Paulson represents the next generation of Sappers committed to carrying the initiative forward. “I might not be the most experienced,” said Cpl Paulson, “but I believe you don’t have to be a black belt to instruct. Passion for the art and the drive to give back are what truly matter. I hope the 1 CER grappling team continues to grow, develop new leaders, and keep this tradition alive.”
With the torch now passed to the next generation, combative training within the Engineer Branch continues to evolve and remain rooted in professionalism, sustained by mentorship, and strengthened by soldiers who understand the importance of readiness both at home and on operations.
Keep rolling and keep training.
Be a BJJ warrior.