Article submitted by Capt Kyle Ho, RPOU(W) Program Officer
On February 6, 2025, the Real Property Operations Unit (West) (RPOU-W) proudly supported CFB Edmonton in hosting the 3rd Canadian Division Grappling Concentration Camp. This event aimed to enhance the combative skills of military personnel through advance Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ) training.
Special Guests: RPOU-W invited two distinguished professors from Frontline Academy Sherwood Park to lead the camp:
Professor Carlos Alexandre de Carvalho Rodrigues: A fifth-degree BJJ Black Belt from Frontline Academy Sherwood Park, Professor Rodrigues began his martial arts journey at 16 in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. He earned his black belt in 2004 and has medaled in numerous international tournaments. For the past 14 years, he has taught BJJ in Abu Dhabi and developed the BJJ project for the Abu Dhabi Royal Family and President National Guard. He also practices Muay Thai, wrestling, boxing, and judo, and has competed in professional and amateur MMA fights.
Professor Hitalo Silva Machado: A third-degree BJJ Black Belt from Frontline Academy Sherwood Park, Professor Machado began his BJJ journey in 2000 and earned his black belt in 2013 and medaled in numerous international tournaments. He has trained with over 100 world-class black belts in Abu Dhabi and holds a 3rd-degree black belt in BJJ, reflecting his dedication and expertise in the art.
The camp featured a series of techniques designed to improve the grappling skills of the participants. The presence of Professors Rodrigues and Machado provided invaluable insights and techniques, greatly benefiting the soldiers in attendance.
3rd Canadian Division Sergeant Major (DSM), Chief Warrant Officer Robert Clarke, shared his vision for creating a robust combative network within the division. Major Phuong (Hollich) Ho served as the 3rd Division OPI for all the future events. As a token of appreciation for their volunteer efforts to improve the army's combative program, DSM Clarke presented a DSM coin to Professor Rodrigues, and Lieutenant Colonel Michael Veitch, Commanding Officer of 1 Combat Engineer Regiment, presented an Engineer Coin to Professor Machado.
The event was a resounding success, fostering camaraderie and enhancing the combative capabilities of the soldiers. The dedication and expertise of Professors Rodrigues and Machado were instrumental in achieving the camp's objectives, and their contributions were deeply appreciated by all participants.
RPOU(W) extends its heartfelt thanks to Professors Rodrigues and Machado for their invaluable support and dedication to improving the combative skills of our military personnel. Their efforts have left a lasting impact on the soldiers and the broader military community.