Rondo (game)
A rondo is a type of game, similar to keep away, that is used as a training drill in association football (soccer). In a rondo, one group of players is tasked with keeping possession of the ball while completing a series of passes, while a smaller group of players (sometimes a single player) tries to take possession.[1]
Rondos occur close together, with the possessing group frequently encircling the opposing group.[2] Unlike other possession games, in a rondo, players occupy predetermined positions.[3] Rondos are said to improve player decision making, coordination, team play, creativity, competitiveness, and physical conditioning.[3] The exercise has been used by major football organizations, including Derby County in the early 1970s,[4] and later at FC Barcelona by Laureano Ruiz,[5] and has been credited with remaking the modern game.[2]
Dutch player and coach Johan Cruyff described the drill as "Everything that goes on in a match, except shooting, you can do in a rondo. The competitive aspect, fighting to make space, what to do when in possession and what to do when you haven’t got the ball, how to play "one touch" football, how to counteract the tight marking and how to win the ball back".[2]
References[edit]
- ^ Clarke, Dave. "What is a Rondo in soccer?". Soccer Coach Weekly. Retrieved 17 November 2017.
- ^ a b c Townsend, Jon (September 2014). "The Allure of the Rondo". These Football Times. Retrieved 17 November 2017.
- ^ a b Baker, Stan (8 March 2013). "Rondo: A simple practice game with multiple benefits". SoccerAmerica. Retrieved 17 November 2017.
- ^ "The Brian Clough Story" - Documentary, 2009
- ^ "Laureano Ruiz, el 'padre' de La Masia, ve "muy, muy acertada la decisión de la FIFA" de sancionar al Barcelona". Vozpópuli (in Spanish). 3 April 2014. Retrieved 28 April 2024.
External links[edit]
- Video of a rondo being played by FC Barcelona
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