Athletes Exempt from Gym Class

I was coaching high school track and field yesterday for non-mandatory conditioning. As the kids were talking amongst themselves during stretches, I overheard some of my athletes claiming that they shouldn't have to take gym class because they are in a sport. I overheard another say that he shouldn't have to make-up gym class if he was absent because he is in shape from hockey over the winter. I wanted to tell these kids something else!! BUT, I remember I thought the same thing when I was in high school gym class. I loved gym class.... I was competitive and bossy. When I had to leave early for a track meet, I didn't have to make gym up because I was in a sport. Kids don't understand the concept of gym at all. It's not just a class period where they can shoot hoops or play dodgeball, while the non-athletic kids huddle in the corner or claim to feel ill so they can sit on the sideline. I realize that as a soon-to-be teacher, I have to separate athletes from gym class. They are NOT related at all. Physical education has nothing to do with having to be athletic. It's about breaking down skills, demonstration, and having the students practice these skills step by step so they understand why they must do it correctly. Just because you are an athlete doesn't mean you can't learn new skills. And just because you may be considered athletic doesn't mean you shouldn't involve yourself in the class. We as teachers need to really work on separating athletes from physical edcuation class to bring the group together as a whole instead of separating the group.