In the video below Coach Rod Lafaurie teaches a Transitional Rondo

INTRO / CONTEXT
The video begins by framing the key problem: how to teach and build consistent execution in football offenses (or systems) so players can operate independently under pressure. It emphasizes that mastery doesn’t come through simple repetition but structured processes of teaching, reinforcement, and accountability.

TEACHING FRAMEWORK
A structured approach is recommended. First, break down the system (or concept) into small, coachable components. Next, teach the pieces in isolation, then integrate them into larger units. Use gradual progression—starting with walk-throughs, then walkthrough at speed, then live reps. Always ensure clarity on what’s expected.

COACHING ACCOUNTABILITY
Coaches must hold players accountable to standards. This includes strict attention to detail, immediate correction, and consistent feedback. When a player commits a mistake, the coach should stop, correct it, and restart rather than letting bad habits accumulate.

REP ENVIRONMENTS / PRACTICE DESIGN
Design rep environments that mimic game stress. Instead of always replicating full-speed or full-contact situations from day one, vary the demands. Some reps are simple, others are high-speed, or against live defense. This variation builds adaptability.

FEEDBACK & SELF-CORRECTION
Players should be taught to self-correct by developing “eye discipline.” Encourage them to recognize mistakes quickly and fix them without needing intervention. Coaches should pair feedback with repetition to reinforce the correct action.

MINDSET & CULTURE
Great execution depends on a culture of discipline, attention to detail, and shared standards. Coaches must guard against complacency and insist on precision even on routine plays. Everyone—coaches and players—must buy into the standard.

KEY TAKEAWAYS FOR COACHES

• Mastery doesn’t come from mindless reps; it comes from structured coaching and accountability.

• Progress gradually from simple to complex, always reinforcing correctness.

• Design practice reps that stress players in various ways.

• Teach players to see and fix their mistakes.

• Maintain high standards and consistency—not just when it’s convenient.

The YouTube video has audio so please make sure that your volume is turned up.

For more great more great small-sided games check out Coach Lafaurie’s instructional DVD: 25+ Small-Sided Games to Master Transition Play

This drill was provided by World Class Coaching

By Tug McTighe –

Description:
Here is a rondo that is not only good for ball possession and playing quickly, but also incorporates a real competition to ensure that the players aren’t just going through the motions. It works for younger or older players and can be simplified for less skilled players or made more difficult for higher-level players if needed.

Setup:
Create four 10×10 or 12×12 grids as shown. Set up 4v1 or 5v2 rondos in opposite corners of the big grid with Black attacking and Yellow defending in one, and Yellow attacking and Black defending in the other.

Execution:
Players in each rondo try to connect 4-6 passes (depending on skill level) without the defenders winning the ball. If defenders do win the ball, they quickly give the ball back to the attacking team and we start the connected pass count at 0 again.

NOTE: Defenders defend the whole time, they do not switch out upon winning the ball.

If either team connects the passes they need to connect, all players immediately move into the next grid in a clockwise rotation. They then continue the rondo, trying to connect the winning number of passes again.

The other rondo group stays where they are and tries to connect and move so they don’t get caught. This is the chasing part of the activity.

Each round is over when one group catches the other group. At this point we reset, switch player roles and start the next round.

Players can do “punishments” like burpees or push-ups to make the competition real. Keep score and play for a set number of rounds or to time.

For more ideas check out World Class Coaching’s eBook 35Possession Rondos