MAYVILLE – Starting next month, high risk youth sports will be allowed to resume play in Chautauqua County.

The Chautauqua County Health Department announced the decision Tuesday evening following discussions among health officials.

Last week New York Governor Andrew Cuomo updated the state’s policy on banning play, now leaving it up to local governments.

Starting February 1, non-professional and non-collegiate sports, such as wrestling, ice hockey, basketball, contact lacrosse, and volleyball can now resume individual and group training, competitions, and tournaments.

However, teams must follow state guidance, with indoor facilities limiting their capacity to no more than 50 percent occupancy and a maximum of two spectators per player.

In addition, leaders say protocols like social distancing, use of face coverings, and enhanced disinfection protocols must be followed.

If an athlete, coach or referee tests positive for COVID-19, all in-person team or group activities, like practices, scrimmages, games, meetings, will likely result in a 10 day suspension to mitigate the spread of infection. Officials say situations will be evaluated on a case-by-case basis.