Behind every high-stakes esports match is a mountain of preparation. International tournaments — whether it’s League of Legends Worlds, The International, or Valorant Champions — demand months of coordination, training, and strategy. Success doesn’t come from aim alone — it’s built on discipline, scouting, and synergy.

Preparation often starts months in advance, with teams bootcamping in international regions to acclimate to new time zones, servers, and metas. These bootcamps simulate the pressure of tournament life: 10-hour days filled with scrims, VOD reviews, and one-on-one coaching.

Coaching staff play a critical role. Analysts break down opponent strategies, create playbooks, and run daily reviews. Strategic coaches develop drafts or compositions, while performance coaches manage team dynamics, communication, and mental health.

Scrimming against local teams provides both practice and valuable intel. Knowing how regional teams approach macro, rotations, or lane priorities helps teams prep specific counter-strategies. For example, a Korean team might focus on precision and teamfighting, while a Western team leans into creative drafts or chaos.

Beyond the game, logistics matter. Nutrition, sleep schedules, and even media obligations are planned out meticulously. Players must avoid burnout and stay sharp for matches that may span several weeks.

During the tournament, adaptability is key. The best teams evolve in real time, adjusting strategies between matches and keeping morale strong even in setbacks.

Esports prep is a science and an art — blending mechanics with mindset. And behind every trophy lift is a team that practiced like champions long before they played like them.