kickoff

(noun) (football) a kick from the center of the field to start a football game or to resume it after a score.

(noun) the time at which something is supposed to begin. Synonyms: beginning, commencement, first, outset, get-go, start, starting time, showtime, offset. Examples: "They got an early start." "She knew from the get-go that he was the man for her."

(noun) a start given to contestants. Synonyms: send-off, start-off. Examples: "I was there with my parents at the kickoff."