Meaning: The quote "WE used to tour quite a lot during the summer with Everton in my day" by Dixie Dean, a renowned athlete, reflects the experiences of a bygone era in sports. Dixie Dean was an English footballer who achieved legendary status for his prolific goal-scoring ability while playing for Everton in the 1920s and 1930s. The quote provides insight into the nature of football tours during that time and the significance of summer tours for clubs like Everton.

During the early to mid-20th century, football tours were a common practice for many clubs, especially during the summer months when the regular league season was not in progress. These tours served multiple purposes, including promoting the sport, providing additional match practice for the players, and generating revenue for the clubs. For clubs like Everton, which had a strong fan base and a rich history, summer tours were an opportunity to connect with supporters in different locations and showcase their talent to a wider audience.

Dixie Dean's reference to touring with Everton during the summer highlights the dedication of players to continue playing and representing their club even during the off-season. It also underscores the commitment of clubs to engage with their fans and expand their reach beyond their home base. In an era before the widespread availability of televised matches and global broadcasting, these tours were a crucial means of bringing the excitement of football to diverse communities and regions.

Furthermore, the quote evokes a sense of nostalgia for a time when football was a simpler and perhaps more community-oriented pursuit. It harkens back to an era when players were closely connected to their supporters and when the sport, though undeniably competitive, retained a more intimate and accessible quality. The mention of touring with Everton in "my day" by Dixie Dean also conveys a personal reflection on his own experiences as a player, suggesting that these summer tours held special significance for him and his teammates.

In the context of modern football, where the sport has evolved into a multi-billion-dollar industry with global reach and extensive commercialization, the notion of summer tours may seem somewhat quaint. However, it is important to recognize the historical importance of these tours in shaping the development of football as a cultural phenomenon. They contributed to the growth of the sport's popularity and laid the groundwork for the international appeal that football enjoys today.

In conclusion, Dixie Dean's quote offers a glimpse into the world of football tours during a bygone era, shedding light on the significance of summer tours for clubs like Everton and the enduring connections between players, clubs, and their supporters. It serves as a reminder of the historical roots of football as a communal pastime and a testament to the enduring legacy of athletes and clubs in shaping the sport we know today.