Final answer:
The core norm of the sport ethic that does not fit is that an athlete accepts pain but avoids risks, as typically athletes may embrace risks to achieve their goals.
Step-by-step explanation:
Understanding deviance in sports involves comprehending 'the sport ethic,' a set of norms that guide the behavior of athletes. The norm that is NOT one of the core norms of the sport ethic is that an athlete accepts pain but avoids risks.
The sport ethic generally revolves around the following beliefs: athletes strive for distinction, accept no obstacles in the pursuit of success, and are fiercely dedicated to 'the game.' Athletes often confront and challenge the limits of their abilities and sometimes embrace risks, rather than avoid them, in order to achieve their goals.
The concept relates closely to sociological theories of deviance and conformity, such as those proposed by Robert Merton. Merton's strain theory suggests that when individuals can't achieve socially accepted goals through legitimate means, due perhaps to inequality of opportunities, they may resort to deviant methods.
Applying this to sports, it hints that athletes may sometimes employ unethical or risky behavior if they believe it's necessary to reach their goals, whether due to personal ambition or societal pressures. This intersects with the fields of anthropology and ethics, as sports behavior is influenced by the broader cultural context and underlying moral frameworks.