While it may have been a slow start for the AC Avalanche, the team is coming back around.

Head Coach, Kenton Levesque, says December has been a great month, he is happy with the team's progression, and is looking forward to 2017.

"I think we're in seventh place right now, with just four points separating us from third or fourth, so right around where we want to be."

Levesque isn't too worried about the standings right now, focusing more on getting technique down and playing the right way.

"My systems and the way we like to do things is not the way they have done before, we ask a lot from our boys and are systems are demanding; takes a while to comprehend some of the  stuff. They've done a fantastic job of learning, and coming in joining the team and family atmosphere we create."

Playing hockey at this level is an eye opening experience for many players; Levesque says moving forward does not get any easier. 

"I think some of these guys have a taste of wanting to play at the next level and it only gets harder from here. I think being now that they're seen at this competitive level and seeing how hard you have to work at it and how focused you have to be; not only when you spend time with the team or even on your off time, making sure you're drinking lots of water and making sure your nutrition is up, is an eye opening experience."

Levesque says 2017's goal is to get into the playoff picture.

"Our playoffs is just a tournament and anything can happen in a tournament, anything can happen in a given weekend. We proved that last year by just sneaking in 8th place and all of a sudden we get second in Sutter Cup and we are in provincials. We were a team that just got hot at the right moment. Our goal is always been number one in Alberta, that will never change. If we keep going the way they're going number one is for sure attainable."

Levesque gives a big shout out as they head into the holiday season to the parents and volunteers that support the team.

Next game for the AC Avalanche is at SLSFSC, Saturday, December 17 at 4:15 pm against the Royals.