There are rules in the PHB for using nonstandard attributes towards ability checks.
Say the DM wanted to see if the PC could hold their breath while swimming underwater, he could ask them to make a Constitution Athletics check as opposed to Strength Athletics.
I haven't gotten to that scene yet, so I have no idea if that's what they are trying to do here, but do you think that the circumstances could call for these alternate checks?
No, I don't think this is one of those circumstances . If they were to implement something like this I it should only trigger an alternate stat if there is a -1 proficiency or lower.
