What is a boarded pitch?
A boarded pitch is exactly what you think: a sports field surrounded by fixed or movable boarding. This boarding ensures the ball stays in play, keeping the game continuous and fast-paced. Ideal for panna football, street football, or just free play in the schoolyard.
But did you know that boarding does more than just set boundaries? It often becomes an active part of the game itself. Players use the boarding to perform tricks, make passes, or create imaginative plays. This makes such a pitch not only practical but also incredibly challenging and attractive, especially for children and young people.
Why are boarded pitches gaining popularity?
Boarded pitches have been popping up like mushrooms in recent years. This makes sense, as they offer the ideal solution for places where space is limited, but the need for sports is high.
Advantages of a boarded pitch:
- Continuous play: fewer interruptions because the ball stays in play
- Space-saving: requires few square meters for a full-fledged playing field
- Encourages movement: easily accessible, inviting, and usable independently
- Suitable for intensive use: durable, low-maintenance, and versatile
For municipalities, schools, and sports clubs, boarded pitches are the way to encourage movement and interaction in places where space is scarce. And let's be honest: everyone is happy with a sports facility that encourages activity, requires little maintenance, and can take a beating.
Where are boarded pitches used?
The great thing about a boarded pitch is that it works almost anywhere. In schoolyards, it provides lively breaks and sports lessons. In neighborhoods and communities, it becomes a place where young people gather to play football and hang out. Sports clubs use it as an extra training field or a special panna zone.
It is also a powerful tool in social projects to connect young people with sports in a positive way. The best part? Such a field is always 'ready to play'. You hardly need any supervision or extra equipment to kick a ball around.
In practice: the Mark van Bommel pitch at PSV
A great example of the power of a boarded pitch can be found at PSV's training complex, De Herdgang. This is home to the Mark van Bommel pitch, named after the former captain.
The pitch has a special fence construction, allowing it to be both enlarged and reduced in size. The youth academy uses the pitch for various games and training sessions, but social initiatives also make use of it. This creates a compact sports area with a significant impact: functional and connecting.
What's involved in constructing a boarded pitch?
A boarded pitch is always custom-made. What works for a schoolyard might not be ideal for a sports club. That's why we look at your situation together: who will use the pitch? How much space is available? Which sub-surface is suitable? Do you choose a fixed or mobile boarding?
At SKOR, we guide the entire process, from the initial idea to delivery. We provide a solution that perfectly matches your location and goals.
Want to know more?
Curious how a boarded pitch can enrich your outdoor space? Feel free to contact us for advice, a quote, or an inspiring example project. Call us at +31 088 008 1100 or email info@skor.nl. We'd be happy to brainstorm with you!
