5v3 Rondo with Rules: Width, Depth and Support

A five-versus-three rondo in a rectangle with spacing rules: there must always be one player on each sideline, one in depth and one support close to the ball. If the attackers break a rule, the ball goes to the defenders, so positioning becomes part of the game.

How to play

1. Mark 20 x 15 m rectangles with colored cones in the middle of each side showing the four reference positions (2 min).
2. Explain the rules: one player on each sideline, one on the far side from the ball and one support within 5 m of the ball carrier (3 min).
3. Three-touch rondo: every eight passes in a row is a point; defenders win the ball by stealing it or by spotting and calling a broken rule (6 min).
4. Two-touch rondo: defenders who win the ball must make two passes between them to become attackers along with two of the former attackers (6 min).
5. Wrap-up: each group draws on a card the ideal positions when the ball is on one sideline (3 min).

Rules

• Defenders can only claim a broken rule out loud and before the next pass.
• No slide tackles or tackles from behind.
• Rectangles are at least 4 m apart.
• The three defenders switch every three minutes even if they have not won the ball.

Variations

Adaptations

• Limited mobility: always takes the depth position, which needs less movement.
• Hearing impairment: broken rules are signaled with a colored card instead of out loud.
• Autism: card with a drawing of the four positions and a heads-up before each rotation.

Learning goals

• Occupy space with width, depth and support.
• Recognize team shape as a requirement for keeping the ball.
• Respect and apply agreed rules with fair play.

Equipment for a class of 25

• cones: 24
• pinnies: 16
• balls: 6

Teacher tip

Defenders learn as much as attackers: hunting for broken rules makes them read the space carefully.

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