DeKALB — NIU home sporting events will operate at 100% capacity this fall following the State of Illinois entering Phase 5 of the Restore Illinois Plan, NIU Athletics announced Friday.

Fans will be welcome in the fall to outdoor events held at Huskie Stadium and the NIU Track & Field Soccer Complex, as well as indoor events at the Convocation Center and Victor. E Court, according to an NIU Athletics news release Friday. 

The move to full capacity comes in association with updated NIU guidelines, also announced Friday by the university. NIU President Lisa Freeman said in an announcement Friday that fully vaccinated individuals will not be required to wear masks or practice social distancing. Those who are not vaccinated will be required to wear masks indoors.

“We are so excited to welcome all fans back to our venues at 100 percent capacity this fall,” Athletic Director Sean Frazier said in the Friday news release.  “It’s time, Huskies! Get ready to pack up the tailgate gear, hear the Huskie Marching Band play the Fight Song and get into your seats in Huskie Stadium to watch games in person. We cannot wait to see you!”

NIU Athletics announced they are extending the deadline to buy football season tickets to June 25.

The announcements come on the same day that Chicago sports venues expanded capacity from 60% to 100%. 

The NIU football season opener at Huskie Stadium is Sept. 11 against the University of Wyoming. Other fall sports schedules are being finalized.