Red Deer Polytechnic has made the decision to allow fans at games this weekend.
In a series of tweets, the institution said that admission will be by donation only and all proceeds go towards student-athlete scholarships.
Fans will need to show proof of vaccination or a negative rapid test, as well as wear a mask at all times. Spectators are also encouraged to socially distance in the stands.
Last week, a petition was started by RDP Queens Hockey to allow fans at games and the online petition garnered close to 8,000 signatures.
Earlier this week, the Alberta Colleges Athletic Association reversed its decision on fans at games.
“Restrictions limiting spectator attendance at all ACAC events have been removed. Alberta Health, local government and institution protocols remain in place,” they said in a Tweet.
“Spectators are advised to comply with limits that may be imposed independently by each ACAC member institution.”
Last week, RDP explained in a statement why fans were not being permitted at games, “This policy decision was approved several months ago by the institutional Presidents of the 17 member institutions of the ACAC, including Red Deer Polytechnic.
“When we consider the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic, and the health and safety of our student-athletes and campus communities across the ACAC, not having spectators is one more way to help minimize transmission of the virus.”
With fans in attendance, the RDP Queens will host the Olds College Broncos on Friday night at 4:30 p.m. in exhibition action.
RDP Queens basketball is set to host the Ambrose University Lions at 6 p.m., with the Kings and Lions to follow Friday. The Queens will host Lakeland College Saturday at 2 p.m. and the Keyano College Huskies Sunday at 1 p.m. The Kings will take on the Huskies following the Queens contest Sunday.
The RDP Kings volleyball team will also host Ambrose in exhibition play on Oct. 30 at 6 p.m., with the Queens to follow at 8 p.m.
All games will take place at the Gary W. Harris Canada Games Centre.