A coaching board (magnetic tactical board, dry-wipe pitch board) is one of the most underused pieces of kit in grassroots football. Most coaches explain drills verbally, which is slower and less effective than showing the drill visually. A 30-second board demonstration replaces 90 seconds of verbal explanation and is better understood, particularly by U9–U13 players who process visual information more readily than verbal.
Dry-wipe boards
The most common type: a printed pitch on a white surface, with dry-wipe markers to draw formations, drill setups, and movement arrows. The advantage is flexibility — you can draw anything. The disadvantage is that marker lines blend together on complex diagrams and the board needs wiping between uses.
Dry-wipe coaching boards: Magnetic dry-wipe coaching board* · Double-sided tactics board* · A4 coaching board with clip*
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Magnetic boards
Magnetic boards use player discs and cones that can be moved around the pitch surface. They're slower to set up than dry-wipe but cleaner to read — each player disc is clearly visible. Better for tactical sessions and team talks than for drill demonstrations. Look for double-sided boards that show both 7v7 and 11v11 pitches.
Magnetic coaching boards: Magnetic tactics board with discs* · Double-sided magnetic board 7v7/11v11*
* As an Amazon Associate, SimpleDrills earns from qualifying purchases. Prices and availability correct at time of writing.
Clipboard coaching boards
A clipboard-sized coaching board (A4 or A5) is the most practical format for sideline use — it fits in a kit bag, can be used in rain, and is visible to a small group of 4–6 players during a drill stoppage. Not suitable for full team tactics sessions, but ideal for individual coaching moments and drill setup explanations.
Clipboard coaching boards: A4 waterproof coaching clipboard* · A5 tactics clipboard*
* As an Amazon Associate, SimpleDrills earns from qualifying purchases. Prices and availability correct at time of writing.
App alternatives
Tactical apps (Tactics Board, Easy Sports Graphics, Coach's Eye) are a free or low-cost alternative to physical boards. The limitation: players need to crowd around your phone screen, which is less effective than a physical board that all 8 players can see simultaneously from 3 metres. Physical board for group use; app for 1-to-1 tactical conversations.