– Without the mastery of the tactical board, there can be no high level of coaching. This rectangle equipped with magnets is the basis for numerous scenarios. Creating and adding further elements to the team’s game concept. Verifying own solutions, as well as discussions within the coaching staff about the team’s way of playing and tactical behaviour. Preparation of training sessions, as well as discussion of the training organisation. Talking – before, during and after training – about the team’s performance, the behaviour of individual players and recreating training situations. Work with the board just before the game, during the halftime and also after the match. Transferring the observed on-field actions during the match. Allowing players to have tactical discussions.
I have listed many contexts using only one tool: the tactical board. It is possible to purchase tactical boards on the market, but they are neither professional enough nor individual in nature. Firstly, they only represent – better or worse reproduced – a pitch with basic lines. What matters in a Coach’s work is the positioning of the team, the movement, the reactions, the sequences, the patterns, the circulation of the ball, all of which must be placed within the framework of the pitch coordinates. The coordinates formula is formed by zones and sectors. Secondly, all available tactical boards are identical. And yet it should be assumed that Coaches have different perspectives on how their teams play. Therefore, designs should include a diverse grid of zones, sectors and allow for individual coordinates schemes. And also customised additional options. Football Development Institute proposes an absolutely innovative approach to this question.
