Evolution on the battlefield – The rise of combat sports in the Canadian Armed Forces
February 2, 2024 - Capt Kyle Ho, Real Property Operations Unit (West)
Exercise STRONG CONTENDER (Ex SC) is an annual exercise led by 1 Canadian Mechanized Brigade Group (1 CMBG) in Edmonton. It brings all units together with the purpose of building team cohesion through sports competition.
Besides traditional sports like hockey, soccer and powerlifting, the Canadian Armed Forces (CAF) have embraced new combat sports that are not readily known to many.
Ex SC has expanded to include athletes with a background in close quarter combat, wrestling, judo and Brazilian Jiu‑Jitsu (BJJ). The aforementioned sports demand a fighting spirit that goes beyond physical strength – it requires mental fortitude and a refusal to submit to challenges.
This year’s Ex SC boasted an impressive 60 competitors who stepped on the mat to test their skills in their relentless pursuit of excellence. Considering the high operational tempo within 1 CMBG, 60 participants is an indication of the popularity of these fast‑growing sports.
A fist pump and handshakes before and after matches, and expressions of respect and genuine camaraderie showcase the profound sportsmanship ingrained in the grappling culture. Victory is not just measured by the number of points on the scoreboard, but by the mutual respect earned through the shared pursuit of excellence.
As attested by competitor Corporal Brock Yates of 1 Combat Engineer Regiment (1 CER), “To me, it is more than a win or a loss. The mutual respect on the mat is equally cherished. That’s what makes this community grow, and this is why I am still doing it.”
Respect extends beyond mere courtesy; it is a way of life, influencing interactions on and off the training mat. It is a code of conduct that permeates every aspect of this discipline. It transforms practitioners into individuals who embody physical skill, humility, integrity and a deep appreciation. Those are some of the qualities we see in a modern warrior.
Cpl Ilya Karassev, head coach for the 1 CER team, offered up insight into the intrinsic benefits gained from participating in grappling sporting events.
“There are many applications in grappling that translate to who we are and what we do. The journey of pursuing unceasing excellence started one roll at a time. BJJ is for everyone, but not everyone is for BJJ. For those who step on the mat, you truly discover who you are.”
Caption
Corporal Johnson Phung (in red) attempts to recover from a disadvantaged position during one of his matches.
Photo by Capt Kyle Ho
Caption
The 1 Combat Engineer Regiment grappling team. (L‑R) Corporal Cody Paulson, Cpl Johnson Phung, Captain Kyle Ho (with Real Property Operations Unit (West)), Cpl Brock Yates, Cpl Ilya Karassev and Master Corporal Alastaire McDonald.
Photo supplied
In the face of tough competition, the grappling team draws strength from each member’s commitment to excellence. Every takedown, every escape, and every well‑executed technique becomes a testament to the team’s collective fighting spirit. It is an exercise in pushing beyond personal limits, confronting fatigue and demonstrating the will to succeed.
Cpl Johnson Phung, a grappling competitor from 1 CER, expresses his appreciation for the inclusion of grappling into a competitive event.
“I feel obligated to represent my unit, especially this time of the year, as my chain of command shows great support and encourages sappers of all ranks to focus on well‑rounded athleticism required by the diverse physical challenges of modern warfare.”
Due to operation tempo, units had difficulty providing members to compose a full team to compete. In recognition of these challenges, there are many like Cpl Phung and Cpl Yates who feel the need to represent their units as individual competitors, demonstrating passion for the sport as well as loyalty to their unit.
Understanding the myriad challenges presented by the operational tempo, 1 CER grappling coach Cpl Cody Paulson explained his appreciation for the support offered by the chain of command.
“I am just grateful for the supports we are getting from our chain of command at 1 CER, making Ex SC possible. I feel lucky to be here and supporting those sappers who are representing 1 CER. I am very proud of them.”
As warfare evolves, so does the need for military training to keep pace. Close‑quarter combat training is only available to combat arms in the Canadian Army; however, there are a variety of resources that offer teachings regarding other grappling‑related skills. Integrating combat sports alongside traditional and non‑traditional sports into competitions such as Ex SC represents an approach to preparing soldiers of all trades for the physical and mental demands they may face on the modern battlefield.
These sports encourage skills that enhance a soldier’s ability to think strategically and respond effectively in diverse combat scenarios. This premise is based on the idea that a smaller individual can overcome a much larger, stronger opponent through superior technique and strategy. This evolution reflects a commitment to staying at the forefront of military preparedness, ensuring CAF personnel are ready to face the challenges of the 21st century.
Now, talk to one of the grappling OPIs at your unit and begin your journey to be the best version of yourself.