Sauer's journey lands him in Lowcountry

If there's one lesson Billy Sauer has learned during his brief professional hockey career, it's always pack light.

In less than three seasons as a pro, Sauer has played for nine different teams. He has stayed in countless hotels and moved in and out of more apartments over the last three years than an average person does in a lifetime.

This year alone, the South Carolina goalie has played for every team -- Gwinnett, Florida, Greenville and the Stingrays -- in the ECHL's South Division.

There was one month during his rookie season when he played for Alaska, Charlotte, Las Vegas and Toledo.

"I've already had four apartments this season, and I couldn't tell you how many hotels I've stayed in," Sauer said with a chuckle. "There have been a couple of times when I woke up and forgot what city I was in. It kind of comes with the territory."

The cities and teammates might change each month, but Sauer's job description is always the same.

"No matter what city I'm in or what team I'm playing for, I try to keep the same routine," Sauer said.

"When I'm on the ice, I don't have to adjust to a new system like a forward or defenseman would. I try to keep my practice habits, my game habits the same. I really try to keep my game simple."

Sauer began the year in Greenville and played against the Stingrays in the preseason. He lasted one game with the Road Warriors before getting shipped off to Gwinnett, where he stayed for the month of November. Then it was off to Florida for December.

Sauer has faced the Stingrays four times, with a 1-3 record, 2.75 goals against average and a .909 save percentage.

"Every time he's gone against us I've been really impressed with his play," said Stingrays coach Spencer Carbery.

So when goalie Daren Machesney tore his groin muscle Jan. 28 against Trenton, Carbery had a pretty good idea of who he was going to call.

"I guess I shouldn't have been surprised (when I was traded)," said Sauer. "When I found out it was South Carolina, I was like, 'why not, they're the only team in the division I haven't played for.' "

Sauer has played twice for the Rays, beating Kalamazoo in a shootout and then dropping a 4-1 decision to Greenville, the city where he started the season.

Sauer knows that his stay in South Carolina could be short if Machesney returns to the lineup as expected in March.

"I don't plan too far ahead," Sauer said. "I've learned anything can happen in this business. I like it here. I like the city and the guys in the locker room. All I can do is go out and play the best I can and not worry about what's going to happen tomorrow or next week or next month."