The spring high school sports season is about to return after a one-year hiatus and Eastern Connecticut Conference fans will be able to watch their favorite schools.

The ECC Board of Directors has announced protocols for the spring season which include allowing spectators to attend games. The league didn't allow fans during the winter season where all events are held indoors.

"Masks will be required and proper social distancing," said ECC commissioner Gary Makowicki. "We're just asking spectators to stay away from where any kids are. There won't be any gatherings after the games or anything like that."

Makowicki said that both its Board of Directors and athletic directors were unanimously in favor of allowing fans for the spring season, which starts on Saturday, April 10.

"It's outdoors, so that helps a lot," Makowicki said. "I think most people feel that it's (the pandemic) going to continue to get better. We'll be in a good spot for the spring season."

Norwich Free Academy boys' volleyball is the only ECC team that plays indoors during the spring.

"I believe we're leaning towards allowing only team members to have two spectators," said NFA athletic director Roy Wentworth said.