Week 66 5 Team Rondo

Instructions/Setup:

In this 4v2 rondo practice, 5 teams of 2 players will attempt to retain possession and switch play after a minimum of 5 passes. The aim for the possession team is to keep the ball moving and find opportunities to switch the play to the opposite grid.

The defending team (the 2 players in each grid) must press to win possession. If the defending team fails to win the ball and the attacking team successfully switches play, the attacking team must transition by passing into the next grid, continuing the sequence until the defenders win possession.

If the defending team wins possession, they will switch places with the two players who lost the ball. The new defenders must sprint into the opposite grid to start their defensive phase. This ensures that all players experience both attacking and defending roles while also promoting high intensity and quick transitions.

Coaching Notes:

• Possession Awareness – The attacking teams should focus on quick passing and maintaining good positioning to ensure they retain possession. Players should move to support the ball carrier, creating passing angles and space for the ball to be played forward or switched quickly.

• Switching Play – Encourage players to switch play quickly and decisively. This will test their ability to read the game and deliver accurate passes across different areas of the grid. Switching play is a vital skill in creating space and breaking defensive lines.

• Defensive Pressure – The defending team must be proactive in their pressure. Encourage them to press in a coordinated manner, closing down passing lanes and forcing the attacking team to play at a higher tempo.

• Transition Speed – After winning possession, defenders should transition quickly, sprinting into the next grid to begin their attacking phase. The attackers must also be quick to react, keeping the ball moving and preparing for defensive challenges.

Progression 1: Add More Grids

Introduce additional grids in the practice to increase the size of the area the ball must be switched across. This will challenge players to cover more space and make longer passes. The defending team will also need to adjust their positioning to deal with the increased number of passing options.

Focus:

Improves spatial awareness and the ability to make longer, more accurate passes across a larger area.

Progression 2: Restrict Number of Touches

Limit the number of touches each player can take (e.g., 2-touch or 1-touch passing) to increase the tempo and encourage faster decision-making. This restriction will force players to think quickly and rely on their first touch and vision to maintain possession.

Focus:

Increases passing speed, decision-making under pressure, and the ability to move the ball quickly while maintaining possession.