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Rondo Pairs: Improve Passing and Ball Possession
In this blog post, we will discuss a training exercise called Rondo Pairs, which is designed to improve passing and ball possession skills in soccer. This drill is suitable for 13-year-old players and above and involves two pairs of players (4 players) trying to maintain possession of the ball against 2 players (1 pair), with limited ball touches. Let’s dive into the objective and coaching points, as well as the setup and duration of this exercise.
Objective and Coaching Points: Improve passing and ball possession
Rondo Size: 8x8m
Players: 7
Duration: 10-15 min
Age: +13 Year Old
Description: 2 pairs of players (4 players) try to maintain possession of the ball with the help of joker in middle against 2 players (1 pair), with limited ball touches (1-2 touches).
Rondo Pairs: Rondo Game for Soccer [VIDEO]
Objective and Coaching Points
The main objective of the Rondo Pairs drill is to improve passing accuracy, decision-making, and ball control under pressure. By playing in a small-sided game with limited touches, players are forced to think quickly and execute precise passes to maintain possession. Here are some coaching points to focus on during this exercise:
- Quick Decision-Making: Encourage players to scan the field and make quick decisions on where to pass the ball.
- Communication: Emphasize the importance of verbal and non-verbal communication between players to create passing options.
- First Touch: Stress the significance of a good first touch to control the ball and set up the next pass.
- Movement Off the Ball: Teach players to make intelligent runs and create space to receive the ball.
- Pressure and Anticipation: Train players to anticipate the movements of opponents and apply pressure to win back possession.
Rondo Size, Players, and Duration
The recommended size for the Rondo Pairs drill is 8×8 meters. This compact playing area forces players to make quick decisions and execute precise passes in tight spaces. The exercise involves 7 players in total:
- 2 pairs of players (4 players) who will try to maintain possession
- 2 players (1 pair) who will apply pressure and try to win the ball back
- 1 joker player positioned in the middle to help the team in possession
The duration of the Rondo Pairs drill is typically 10-15 minutes. This timeframe allows players to fully engage in the exercise without becoming fatigued. It’s important to maintain a high intensity throughout the drill to maximize its effectiveness.
Description of the Drill
Now, let’s walk through the step-by-step process of the Rondo Pairs drill:
- Set up an 8×8 meter playing area using cones or markers to define the boundaries.
- Divide the players into two pairs, each pair positioned opposite each other within the playing area.
- Assign two players to apply pressure and win the ball back. They should position themselves outside the playing area.
- Position a joker player in the middle of the playing area to help the team in possession.
- Start the drill by having one pair of players pass the ball to each other while the other pair tries to win the ball back.
- The team in possession should aim to maintain possession for as long as possible, using the joker player to create passing options.
- Limit the number of touches each player can take to increase the difficulty and encourage quick decision-making.
- If the defending pair wins the ball back, they can switch roles with the pair who lost possession.
- Continue the drill for the desired duration, focusing on the coaching points mentioned earlier.
The Rondo Pairs drill is a great way to develop passing and ball possession skills in a game-like scenario. By practicing in a small-sided game with limited touches, players can improve their decision-making, communication, and overall technique. Remember to provide constructive feedback and encouragement to help players progress and enjoy the training session.
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Give the Rondo Pairs drill a try in your next training session and witness the positive impact it can have on your team’s passing and ball possession abilities. Good luck & Happy Coaching!