kick·off 
/ˈkɪkˌɑ:f/ noun
plural kick·offs /ˈkɪkˌɑ:f/ noun [count] 1 : a kick that starts play in a game (such as American football or soccer)
▪ a long kickoff ▪ The kickoff (of the game) is at 1:00. [=the game begins at 1:00] 2 : the start of something
▪ At his campaign kickoff, the senator gave a passionate speech about combating poverty. ▪ His speech marked the kickoff of his campaign. — see also kick off at 1kick
▪ a long kickoff ▪ The kickoff (of the game) is at 1:00. [=the game begins at 1:00]
▪ At his campaign kickoff, the senator gave a passionate speech about combating poverty. ▪ His speech marked the kickoff of his campaign. — see also kick off at 1kick
