KINGSFORD — Great Northern Conference volleyball matches will take place without spectators to begin the 2020 season, conference officials said Thursday.

In addition to Kingsford, conference members include Escanaba, Gladstone, Marquette and Menominee.

“It is hoped that a revised format allowing for a limited number of spectators to attend matches could eventually be adopted as restrictions lessen and a safe return to in-person education has occurred,” GNC administrators and athletic directors said in a joint statement.

Administrators will revisit the process weekly and will inform athletes, parents and fans of any changes, said Chris Hartman, athletic director for Breitung Township Schools.

In the meantime, matches will be streamed live through the NFHS Network, which is a partnership of the National Federation of State High School Associations and PlayOn! Sports.

Breitung Township Schools has posted information on its website on how to watch. Live games can be viewed on the MHSAA.tv network or the KHS Athletic YouTube site.

The decision to hold contests without spectators in attendance will help protect the return to in-person education now taking place at schools, conference officials said. The non-spectator format is an attempt to ensure all student athletes, coaches and essential staff in the game environment have been pre-screened for coronavirus symptoms and can best adhere to return-to-play guidelines issued by the Michigan High School Athletic Association.

The ban on spectators will be in effect as Kingsford opens its season Tuesday by hosting North Dickinson County in a non-conference match.