Meaning: The quote by Avery Brundage encapsulates the idea that while sports are a form of recreation and entertainment, they are not the ultimate focus or purpose of a sportsman's life. Instead, the sportsman's attention is directed towards a higher goal, which may be their education or vocation. This quote sheds light on the mindset of a dedicated athlete and emphasizes the importance of prioritizing education and personal development above the pursuit of sports and leisure activities.

Avery Brundage, the author of the quote, was a prominent figure in the world of sports, particularly known for his involvement in the Olympic movement. As an American sports official, he served as the president of the International Olympic Committee (IOC) from 1952 to 1972. Throughout his career, Brundage was an advocate for the principles of amateurism in sports and held strong beliefs about the role of athletics in the lives of individuals.

In the context of the quote, Brundage highlights the distinction between sports as a form of recreation and the broader significance of education or vocation in an individual's life. The term "sportsman" refers to someone who is actively engaged in sports, and the quote suggests that while they enjoy and participate in sports as a recreational activity, their primary focus lies elsewhere. This aligns with the traditional view of amateur athletes who pursued sports as a passion or hobby while prioritizing their education or professional careers.

The notion of sports as a recreation, game, amusement, and pastime reflects the enjoyable and leisurely aspects of athletic pursuits. It acknowledges the role of sports in providing entertainment, promoting physical activity, and fostering a sense of camaraderie among participants. However, Brundage emphasizes that despite these recreational qualities, the sportsman's eyes are fixed on a higher goal, which transcends the immediate enjoyment of sports.

The higher goal alluded to in the quote pertains to the most important thing in the sportsman's life, which Brundage identifies as their education or vocation. This suggests that the sportsman recognizes the value of intellectual and professional development, viewing it as a priority that takes precedence over their involvement in sports. By emphasizing education or vocation as the focal point, the quote underscores the idea that sports should not overshadow or detract from the pursuit of personal and professional growth.

Furthermore, the quote implies that the sportsman's dedication to their education or vocation is a reflection of their commitment to long-term success and fulfillment. It conveys the message that while sports may offer enjoyment and recreation, they should not overshadow the pursuit of intellectual and career aspirations. Instead, the sportsman's focus on a higher goal underscores the importance of a balanced and purposeful approach to life, wherein sports are integrated into a broader framework of personal and professional development.

In conclusion, Avery Brundage's quote encapsulates the perspective of a sportsman who recognizes the recreational nature of sports but prioritizes their education or vocation as the most important aspect of their life. It underscores the idea that while sports provide enjoyment and amusement, they should not overshadow the pursuit of broader goals related to personal and professional development. The quote serves as a reminder of the value of maintaining a balanced approach to life, wherein sports coexist with, but do not overshadow, the pursuit of education and vocation.