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Drill: 3-Zone Rondo with Interception Zone (U12 and Up)

Organization:

• Set up three zones: two 10x10-meter outer zones and a 5-meter middle zone for interceptions.

• Divide players into three teams of four players (total 12 players).

• In one of the outer zones, play 4v2: four players keep possession while two defenders press.

• After five successful passes, the possession team can switch the ball to the opposite zone, aiming to avoid interception in the middle zone.

• Two defenders from the original zone enter the middle to attempt interceptions, while two new chasers press in the new possession zone.

• If possession is lost, the team that loses possession moves into the middle, while the previous interceptors and defenders swap roles with the new possession team.

Objective:

• Encourage quick passing, movement, and transition awareness for players moving between zones.

• Emphasize quick defensive transitions, where interceptors and chasers work together to regain possession.

Progressions:

1. Two-Touch Limit: Limit players to two touches to make passing and ball movement faster.

2. Increase Pressure: Add a third defender in the middle zone for interception, increasing the challenge for the possession team.

3. Directional Play: Only allow passes into certain areas of the receiving zone, which adds a directional focus for both attackers and defenders.

Key Coaching Points:

• Quick Passing: Encourage players to keep a high tempo and look for safe yet progressive passes.

• Scanning: Players should frequently check the middle zone to avoid interceptors when switching play.

• Effective Transitions: Quick reactions are key when transitioning between attacking, intercepting, and defending roles.

• Positional Awareness: Defenders and interceptors need to anticipate passes, while the possession team should maintain spacing and passing lanes.

Coaching Questions:

• To the players:

  1. "How can you adjust your positioning to open passing lanes?"

  2. "What should you look for before switching to the other zone?"

  3. "How can you support your teammate when transitioning between zones?"

• To the coach:

  1. "Are players consistently scanning and aware of middle-zone interceptors?”

  2. "Is the possession team using quick passes and supporting each other during the switch?"

  3. "Are players effectively transitioning between attack and defense when roles change?"

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