Midfield Rondo Drill - Three Players in Hexagon
Midfield Rondo Drill - Three Players in Hexagon
RONDOS
10/23/20242 min read
Midfield Rondo Drill - Three Players in Hexagon
In this midfield rondo drill, players work on passing, movement, and positioning, ideal for training midfielders to control and distribute the ball under pressure. Set up in a hexagonal shape, this drill focuses on close ball control, quick decision-making, and awareness to simulate game situations where midfielders need to find space and link up play.Players are encouraged to communicate constantly, using verbal cues and gestures to maintain fluidity and ensure seamless transitions between passes. As the drill progresses, coaches can introduce variations such as limiting the number of touches each player can take or adding neutrals to increase the challenge and simulate more intense match conditions. This not only hones technical skills but also boosts players' confidence in tight spaces. By frequently rotating positions within the hexagon, players develop versatility and a deeper understanding of different roles, enhancing their ability to adapt during actual games. Overall, this drill is an excellent way to cultivate a cohesive and dynamic midfield unit capable of dictating the pace and rhythm of a match.
Key Coaching Points:
Positioning: Midfielders should be aware of their spacing and positioning relative to both teammates and opponents.
Quick Passing: Focus on quick, sharp passes to maintain possession and control the tempo.
Scanning: Players should constantly look around to anticipate the next pass.
Decision-Making: Encourage players to decide between short and long passes, and to recognize when to release the ball quickly under pressure.
Body Shape: Midfielders should open up their body to receive passes on the half-turn for a smooth transition to the next move.
Communication: Effective verbal and non-verbal communication is crucial for coordinating with teammates and ensuring a cohesive team strategy.
Defensive Awareness: Midfielders must be vigilant in tracking back during defensive transitions to intercept passes and block passing lanes.
Creativity: Encourage players to think outside the box and use creative dribbling and passing to break down defense.
Stamina and Fitness: Maintaining peak physical condition allows midfielders to cover large areas of the pitch and sustain high levels of performance throughout the match.
Leadership: Midfielders often act as the link between defense and attack, so they should lead by example and inspire confidence in their teammates.
Progressions:
One-Two Pass: Midfielders combine for a quick one-two pass with teammates on the outside to keep defenders off balance.
Third Man Run: After passing, the player in possession initiates a third-man run to create a dynamic passing option.
Switch Play: Allow for cross-field passes to emphasize switching the play and opening space.
Press Resistance: Add a defender in the middle zone to increase pressure on the ball, simulating an opponent pressing the midfield line.
Questions for Players:
Where is the open space?
Who is available for a quick pass or one-two?
Are you scanning before receiving the ball?
How can you help create space for your teammate?
