GREAT FALLS, Mont. – After winning four straight games on the road against two of the top teams in the Frontier Conference, the University of Providence volleyball team moved up four spots to the #16 ranking in the latest edition of the NAIA National Poll.

"I'm definitely pleased with the move," head coach Arunas Duda said. "Four spots is more than I thought we would. It was a tough, tough stretch for us on the road so I think it's well-deserving. I'm very pleased with where we're at. We couldn't be happier. We have got to be happy with all the adversity that hit early on, to be #16^th in the country is quite a blessing. We're very pleased and very proud."

The Argos (14-2, 14-2) are one of two teams from the Frontier Conference that are in the poll – Rocky Mountain is ranked a spot behind them at #17.

Though they haven't played any non-conference games, the coaching staff is well aware of the teams that are ranked ahead of the Argos.

"I think we're in a pretty good spot." Duda said. "There's room for a little bit more movement towards the end of the last couple of weeks here. Those teams ahead of us, they're solid as can be. Those are some good volleyball teams that usually fight for the championship. Those are our goals and I think we've positioned ourselves well to do that."

The top 48 teams will qualify for the NAIA National Tournament. All 48 teams will play an opening round game on April 17 at the site of the higher seed. If the Argos can maintain a high ranking, they will be able to host that opening round game.The 24 winners of the opening round game will then compete in pool play in Sioux City, Iowa.

"If we're fortunate to continue winning, than we have the opportunity to host an opening round game in the National Tournament," Duda said. "I think we've positioned ourselves well enough to do that, which is a huge advantage. The higher we are, the better chance to get one of those lower ranked teams in that first round game if we're fortunate enough to qualify for Nationals. We've very pleased with where we're are. The girls are taking care of business. They're showing up day in and day out ready to play."

The Argos have just four games left in the regular season - all in the McLaughlin Center. The team will begin their four-game home stand this weekend with a double-header against Montana State-Northern (2-14, 2-14), a team fresh off a win against Carroll.

"Knowing that Northern, who is last place in the conference right now, having our girls see that they can beat anyone, it really helps our girls get focused and get prepared for this week of competition. We had a great day of practice yesterday and they seem to be in great spirits. Knock on wood but we're healthy right now, we're feeling good, we're rested and recovered. We're in a really good spot for this homestretch. Being at home is just the icing on the cake for us."

The Argos and Lights will play their first game on Friday night at 7 p.m., followed by an afternoon game on Saturday at 1 p.m.