GREAT FALLS, Mont. – The University of Providence men's hockey team was ranked 12^th in the first ACHA D2 National Ranking of the season.

Under the revised rules of the ACHA that were created this season, their will be no regional tournaments for the postseason. Instead, the Top 16 teams of the final rankings will qualify for the National Tournament.

"The rankings show that if the national tournament started today we would be going, so that's encouraging," head coach Jeff Heimel said. "I'm not sure that 12 is reflective of where we are, but you have to look at the positives. We have a tough strength of schedule, we started a little slow out of the gates and we're still being respected. People recognize that we're a good hockey team. My hope is that as we play out some of these games throughout the season that we'll move up and give us a little bit more insurance for the national tournament."

All of the opponents that the Argos have played this season are ranked. The University of Mary is atop the poll at #1, Dakota College of Bottineau is ranked #5, and Williston State, whom the Argos (2-5) beat twice this season, are ranked one spot ahead of the Argos at #11.

"Our strength of schedule helps," Heimel said. "You want to play teams that are going to be there at the end. It's a good measuring stick of where you want to be when the national tournament rolls around."

Though Heimel is pleased with the ranking, he knows his team is capable of more. His team has competed against some of the top teams in the country and he believes his team will only get better as the season progresses.

"It does help shape direction for us moving forward," Heimel said. "It's always helpful to know where you're at. Whether you agree with or not, we've got some direction now which is good."

The Argos are off this weekend, but will return to the ice on Feb. 12 against the University of Mary.