The Supporters' Shield is an award given to the team with the best regular-season record in Major League Soccer (MLS). It recognizes the club that accumulates the most points over the course of the season, regardless of the outcome in the playoffs. The shield was first introduced in 1998 and has become a prestigious accolade in American soccer. Winning the Supporters' Shield is significant because it highlights consistent performance throughout the season. The team that earns this honor is often seen as a strong contender for the MLS Cup, which is the league's championship trophy. The award is supported by various fan groups, emphasizing the importance of supporter engagement in soccer culture.