Erie County leaders are worried about a recent spike in COVID-19 cases among young athletes, and that has parents on the defense.

Dave Mansell is a local high school football coach with a son who plays multiple sports.

He says the odds of spreading COVID inside a structured athletic practice are low compared to when kids are out in public settings.

He also believes the lack of sports during the pandemic has taken a toll on the mental health of kids and says sports provide a much needed outlet.

"Kids need to be around each other, they need to be around adults, they need guidance and the sports and athletics that can provide that structure, that extra 15, 20, 25 hours of structure a week for kids is just huge," Mansell said.

Since February 1, the Erie County Health Department has paused more than 160 youth sports teams because at least one person on those teams tested positive for the virus.