preseason

Preseason refers to the period before the official season when teams prepare for competition. It typically includes training camps, practices, scrimmages, and exhibition games. The term is common in many sports, though some leagues use different names such as spring training in baseball. The primary aim is to build fitness, test tactics, and evaluate players.

Purpose and activities: Teams evaluate talent, integrate newcomers and rookies, and determine rosters and roles. Coaches test schemes, formations, and strategies under game conditions. Preseason also serves as a controlled environment to minimize injury risk before high-stakes competition begins. Results may influence personnel decisions but do not determine final standings.

Structure by sport: In American football, preseason usually comprises several exhibition games and a roster-cut process leading to a regular-season roster. In basketball and hockey, teams play a series of warm-up games to establish rotations and chemistry. In soccer, preseason includes friendlies and training camps, sometimes with international tours to build fan interest. In college football, fall camp and pre-season practice precede the first games. Baseball uses spring training; while not always called preseason, it serves a similar preparatory function.

Variations and note: Length and intensity vary by league and country, with schedule constraints and health considerations shaping preparation. Preseason is watched by fans and media for early indicators of performance, but it is not a reliable predictor of regular-season success.