For many high school students, gym class is a chance to relax, stay active, and have fun with friends. But for others, gym class has become more than just a break from the classroom–it’s a battleground where every game is a competition, and every score is a matter of life or death. As the school year goes on, gym teacher Mr. Mike Brossart hopes to balance competition and enjoyment in gym class, making sure that the spirit of physical education isn’t frowned upon.
I’m sure we have all been in a gym class where some students participate more than others, and while interviewing Mr. Brossart, he gave some really great information. When asked about the number of kids in each class that participate, Mr. Brossart said it was “around 95%” but he strives to get 100% of students involved.
While some students immediately jump into games and activities, there are also some who struggle to find their place. For some people, the competitiveness of gym class can make it difficult to fully participate. Whether it’s the fear of not understanding the rules, the pressure of trying to keep up with more skilled peers, or simply lack of interest in the competitive aspect of the activities, these students may not participate entirely. Their disassociation can sometimes create a division in the classroom: those who are actively involved, versus those who stay on the bleachers. No matter what group you’re in, Mr. Brossart says “I think all of us get nervous around a new sport we might have never played, so I always tell my students to have an open mind for the first few days and see how they like it!”
In these classes, it becomes clear that participation isn’t just about physical activity; it’s also about having a sense of belonging and confidence. A good mindset is needed–one that emphasizes teamwork, encouragement, and fun, rather than just competition. By pulling the focus away from self-performance and towards group participation and enjoyment, gym class can become a space where every student feels motivated to take part, regardless of their skill level.
In addition to the challenges some students face when it comes to participation, Mr. Brossart also recognizes that students who are involved in sports tend to be more engaged in gym class. When asked the question “Do you see a difference in kids who play sports and who don’t?” His response was “Yes, I think it’s because people who play sports are more into that.” For the athletes, the experience and skills that they have developed through sports translate easily into gym class, where they feel more comfortable and confident. Their excitement for physical education often encourages them to take on a leadership role, and they’re usually more willing to dive into the competitive part of otherwise normal and fun games.
Mr. Brossart hopes to close the gap between these students by encouraging all of them, whether they’re athletes or not, to engage with the class in a way that feels comfortable to them.
