North Collier fire extrication team to represent the U.S. at International Rescue Challenge
North Collier Fire Rescue’s Extrication Team (North Collier XT) is preparing to take the world stage as the only team from the United States selected to compete in the prestigious 2026 Holmatro Rescue Challenge during the international Interschutz exhibition in Germany.
The team departs from Southwest Florida International Airport (RSW) this Friday morning and will compete against elite rescue teams from 27 countries worldwide in one of the world’s most respected vehicle extrication competitions.
Held June 1–6, 2026, the Holmatro Rescue Challenge brings together the best technical rescue and vehicle extrication teams from across the globe to test their skills, teamwork, leadership, patient care, and innovative rescue techniques in realistic crash scenarios.
North Collier XT will compete on Monday, June 1, at 1455 local time in Germany. 0855 Local time here in North Naples.
“This is an extraordinary honor for our team, our organization, and our community. To be selected as the only team representing the United States speaks volumes about the dedication, professionalism, and skill of these firefighters. Competitions like this are about far more than trophies or rankings — they sharpen the exact skills our crews use during real emergencies here at home when someone is trapped inside a vehicle after a serious crash. Every scenario, every evolution, and every lesson learned helps make our firefighters better prepared to save lives in Southwest Florida.”
The North Collier XT members competing in Germany are:
- Engineer Mike Matrazzo, Competition Team Leader
- Lieutenant Mason Marty, Extrication Specialist
- Engineer James Langlois, Extrication Specialist
- Engineer Colton Rose, Medic
- Firefighter Randy Fite, Extrication Specialist
- Firefighter Max Padilla, Extrication Specialist
The Holmatro Rescue Challenge is internationally recognized for advancing modern extrication techniques and improving rescue outcomes for victims involved in serious vehicle accidents. Teams are evaluated not only on speed, but also scene safety, patient care, communication, teamwork, tool proficiency, and technical precision.
While preparing for the world stage, the team also worked to help fund the journey themselves through sponsorships and team t-shirt sales. The overwhelming support they received from the community reflects just how proud Southwest Florida is of the firefighters representing not only North Collier Fire Rescue, but the entire United States.
Before competition begins, teams participate in advanced masterclasses and equipment familiarization training alongside some of the world’s top rescue instructors and technical rescue professionals.
“Our firefighters are competing against some of the best rescue teams on the planet,” said Captain Dustin Gourley, who is also the NCFR XT Team Leader. “But beyond the competition itself, this is about bringing knowledge back home, improving rescue operations here in Southwest Florida, and continuing to provide the highest level of service to our community.”
The challenge will be livestreamed internationally on Holmatro’s social media platforms throughout the week.
North Collier Fire Rescue encourages the community to follow along and cheer on North Collier XT as they proudly represent Southwest Florida and the United States on the global stage.