The rondo soccer skill is a classic drill that has been around for years. Whether you’re an elite professional or an amateur kid, you’ve probably encountered a rondo during a soccer training session. In this article, we’ll provide a comprehensive guide to the famous soccer rondo, from its definition to its history, origins, and benefits.
What is a Rondo in Soccer?
A rondo is a training drill focused on ball possession. It involves two teams, with one team tasked with keeping possession while the other tries to win the ball back. The drill takes place in a circular or grid shape, with the possession team forming a ring around the outside and the defensive team stationed in the middle, attempting to intercept passes.
The number of players involved in a rondo can vary, but it usually requires at least three players, with more players adding to the challenge. Rondo drills typically use one ball, although a second ball can be added to increase the pace and complexity of the drill.
The coach or player in control of the session can introduce additional restrictions or elements to the drill. For example, players may be required to use their weaker foot, or the possession team may be limited to one touch. The number of players in the defensive team can also be adjusted to make it easier or harder to win the ball.
Who invented the Rondo?
The exact origin of the rondo drill is difficult to pinpoint, as similar positional-based exercises have been used and adapted by different coaches over the years. However, one name often associated with the development of the rondo is Laureano Ruiz.
Ruiz, a Spanish coach and former player, introduced the rondo to Barcelona during the late 1970s. His techniques greatly influenced players like Johan Cruyff, who took the rondo to the next level and made it a key element of tactical and technical preparation. The impact of the rondo is still felt today, with top coaches like Pep Guardiola using it extensively in their training sessions.
What are the main uses and benefits of the Soccer Rondo?
The rondo drill allows players to develop a wide range of skills. Johan Cruyff believed that every aspect of the game, except shooting, could be practiced through rondos. Skills such as ball control, passing accuracy, decision-making, and teamwork are all developed during this drill.
For the passing team, the rondo improves their ability to assess passing lanes and execute accurate passes. It also emphasizes the importance of maintaining possession for each player, as losing the ball often means swapping out for the defensive team.
Rondos also help develop first touches, as players need to deal with a variety of passes. Defensive skills are enhanced through overload situations, where defenders are outnumbered and must rely on speed, reflexes, and pressing abilities. Intercepting passes and timing defensive actions are crucial components of the drill.
Furthermore, the rondo fosters teamwork, communication, and a strong sense of camaraderie among players. The drill requires constant organization and reading of the game.
In summary, the rondo soccer drill is a highly beneficial technique that trains essential soccer skills. It has been embraced by top coaches and players throughout the years for its effectiveness in developing technique, teamwork, and tactical understanding.
Frequently Asked Questions:
Why do they call it a rondo?
The term “rondo” comes from the Spanish word meaning “round.” It refers to the circular shape that the passing team takes during the drill.
What abilities are exercised in rondos?
Rondos exercise a wide variety of skills, including passing, ball control, teamwork, pressing, intercepting, and reflexes.
Which positions benefit most from rondo soccer drills?
All players can benefit from rondo drills, as possession and ball work skills are crucial for any footballer. However, more technically-oriented players like attacking midfielders and wingers often reap the greatest rewards from this type of training.
What is the role of an attacking midfielder in soccer?
The attacking midfielder plays an advanced midfield role, linking the midfield and attack, and creating scoring chances. Key skills for an attacking midfielder include ball control, passing, dribbling, and movement.
For more information on soccer coaching and tactics, check out our website Zerobertooficial, where you can find guides on soccer positions explained and recommended books about tactics and coaching.
Conclusion
The rondo is a classic soccer drill that has stood the test of time. Its origins can be traced back to influential coaches like Laureano Ruiz and Johan Cruyff, who recognized its value in developing technical skills and tactical understanding. The benefits of the rondo are numerous, including improved ball control, passing accuracy, teamwork, and defensive abilities. Whether you’re a professional player or a beginner, incorporating rondo drills into your training sessions can elevate your game to new heights. So gather your teammates and start practicing those rondos!