South Carolina Stingrays goaltender Ben Kraws won four consecutive starts while the ECHL team managed relocated practices and changes in its goaltending group. Kraws stopped all 27 shots in a 5-0 shutout of the Savannah Ghost Pirates after Garin Bjorklund was recalled by the Hershey Bears hours before the game.
The South Carolina Stingrays practiced in Savannah during the week of Oct. 19 because ice was unavailable in North Charleston. After returning to North Charleston for Thursday’s practice, the team traveled back to Savannah, where Ryan Kenny joined the group and Kraws received the start.
Ben Kraws Provides Stability in Goal
Kraws was the only goaltender on the South Carolina Stingrays roster who had been with the team since the start of training camp. He made 27 saves in a 5-3 win over the Orlando Solar Bears before stopping 25 shots in a 7-3 victory over the Savannah Ghost Pirates.
The shutout was the sixth of Kraws’ ECHL career and his first since March 29, 2025, when he played for the Idaho Steelheads. Ryan Sandelin recorded a hat trick in the 5-0 win over Savannah, while Kraws made 15 of his 27 saves in the third period.
“Whenever your number’s called, an hour before the game or whatever, 12 o’clock, it doesn’t matter,” Kraws said. “You’ve got to be ready to show up.”
Kraws waited more than eight minutes to face his first shot against Savannah. Riley Hughes broke in from the right wing and moved toward the front of the net, but Kraws denied the chance with his left pad before stopping the remaining 26 shots.
South Carolina Stingrays Adapt to ECHL Roster Changes
South Carolina Stingrays head coach Jesse Kallechy said the week’s bus rides and goaltending changes reflected the demands of the ECHL. The team had little time to integrate Kenny before the game, but Kraws remained prepared for the start.
“That’s life in the ECHL,” Kallechy said. “There’s a lot of different things that come your way and you just got to adapt. So, good to get out on the road with the guys and spend some time on the road together early.”
Kallechy also credited Kraws’ preparation and consistency during the four-start stretch. “He’s a relentless worker, he’s an amazing pro, how he takes care of himself, how he prepares, how he shows up every day at practice,” Kallechy said. “He’s a really calming presence back there. With how he plays, he never seems to get too chaotic. He’s been really, really good for us this stretch here, and the net is kind of his right now.”
Bjorklund returned to the South Carolina Stingrays on loan after spending a week with the Hershey Bears. Kraws said the changing circumstances do not alter the need to stay ready.
South Carolina Stingrays Scheduled to Host Atlanta Gladiators
The South Carolina Stingrays were scheduled to host the Atlanta Gladiators on Sunday, Nov. 1, at 3:05 p.m. at the North Charleston Coliseum. The team was seeking to extend its season-opening win streak to six games.
The game was also scheduled as Scooby Doo Day/Undie Sunday, presented by Gildan.
MSB Analysis
Ben Kraws gave the South Carolina Stingrays a steady option during a week of relocated practices, travel and roster movement. His four consecutive wins included a 27-save shutout, and his preparation allowed him to handle a start that came together quickly.
Bjorklund’s return gives the Stingrays another goaltending option, but Kraws’ consistency remained central during the team’s early stretch. His performance provided stability in goal while South Carolina adjusted to changing circumstances.
Source: Original report
