08 Aug 2015

Rondo game – made simple

This incredible display of Rondo by Bayern Munich shows how the game of Rondo can be played. But how can grassroots coaches facilitate a suitable game of Rondo, that their players will really enjoy, take ownership of and develop and improve their passing and support at the same time?

By adjusting the size of the circle and making it bigger – it will give you players a bit more time and be under less pressure, you can provide an appropriate Rondo session which they will really enjoy and improve their passing and support skills.

In addition, by initially only having one defender in the circle and by allowing your players to have two or even three touches, you can provide a rondo game that is suitable for the age and ability of your players.

As they get better, you can make the circle smaller, encourage more one touch play and introduce a second defender.

Set appropriate challenges for the players, for example, can they make 5 passes without the defender touching the ball, then 8 passes, then 10? Once they reach 10 passes, introduce a second defender. Once they make 10 passes again, make the circle smaller.

Encourage the following:

• Players to be alert and on their toes so they can react quickly.
• Receiving players to try and have a picture in their head of where they want the ball to go next, prior to receiving the ball
• Quick and good support from players for the player receiving the ball
• Good communication between players
• Accuracy, weight and timing of pass
• Pass where the defenders are not – head up play