Introducing Ice Lions

Summary

Podcast Summary: Six Minutes – Episode "Introducing Ice Lions"

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Overview

In the premiere episode of Six Minutes titled "Introducing Ice Lions," listeners are introduced to a captivating narrative inspired by the true story of Kenya's first and only national ice hockey team, the Ice Lions. Produced by Gen-Z Media and hosted by GZM Shows, this episode sets the stage for a thrilling adventure that blends ambition, cultural challenges, and the unyielding spirit of its young protagonist, John Kitumaini.

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Introduction to Ice Lions

The episode opens with the Host from GZM Shows passionately introducing their latest audio drama, Ice Lions. Highlighting the uniqueness of the show, the Host shares insights into the production process, emphasizing the authenticity brought by casting Kenyan actors and recording sessions conducted from Nairobi. The excitement builds as the Host encourages listeners to dive into the first episode and stay tuned for weekly releases.

Host [00:04]: "If you love ice skating too, you'll love our newest GZM show, Ice Lions... It's like no other GCM show you've ever heard before."

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John Kitumaini’s Dream

The story centers around John Kitumaini, an 11-year-old from Nairobi, Kenya, who harbors dreams of becoming a soccer star. Despite his passion, John finds himself more of a cheerleader than a player, lacking the skills to compete effectively on the field.

John Kitumaini [02:21]: "Ice Lions is inspired by a true story and recorded in Nairobi, Kenya. This is not a story about a team of underdogs who come together to defeat a mighty opponent."

John's aspirations take a pivotal turn during a crucial league championship match when his best player, Kobe, gets injured. With the team trailing by one goal and time running out, John is thrust into the spotlight to take a penalty kick that could secure the championship.

John Kitumaini [05:14]: "With Kobe hurt and the game in extra time, the coach sent me in."

Despite his determination, John's penalty kick misses, leading to disappointment among his teammates. This moment becomes a catalyst for John's journey, steering him away from soccer and toward an unexpected path—ice hockey.

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The Call to Ice Hockey

After the failed penalty kick, John grapples with his self-worth and contemplates leaving the field. His life takes a dramatic shift when he stumbles upon ice hockey—a sport he had never considered before. Fascinated by the elegance and speed of the game, John becomes determined to pursue this new passion, despite living in a country without an ice rink.

John Kitumaini [10:01]: "As I watched them skate around in celebration, I knew being on the boring old ground would never again be enough for me. I had to be where they were. I had to be on the ice."

John's quest leads him to various places in Nairobi, including sports cafes and internet cafes, where he immerses himself in ice hockey videos, fueling his ambition. His relentless pursuit reflects his deep-seated desire to find his true calling.

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Mysterious Invitation and Partnership

John's dedication catches the attention of Samuel, a 20-year-old and president of an exclusive ice hockey club in Nairobi. After solving a riddle related to hockey legend Wayne Gretzky, John is invited to join Samuel's club. This meeting marks the beginning of a significant partnership aimed at establishing Kenya's first ice hockey team.

Samuel [19:36]: "I've been watching you play... I can tell you love the game more than the others."

Despite initial setbacks, including skepticism from Samuel about John's lack of ice hockey knowledge, their shared passion for the sport lays the groundwork for collaboration. Together, they envision creating something groundbreaking in Kenya's sports landscape.

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Discovery of the Ice Rink

The climax of the episode occurs when Samuel leads John to a newly constructed ice rink in Nairobi. Although originally intended for tourists, this facility becomes the foundation for their ambitious project—the Ice Lions.

Samuel [27:32]: "It's a brand new ice rink. It was just completed. The only one in all of East Africa."

As John steps onto the ice, the realization of his dreams becomes tangible. The rink symbolizes not just a physical space for hockey but also the embodiment of unity and perseverance, resonating with the Swahili word "Harambe," meaning "all pulled together."

John Kitumaini [29:28]: "We can bring something new to Kenya. Harambe."

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Conclusion and Future Outlook

The episode concludes with John and Samuel committing to form the first ice hockey team in Kenya. Their determination sets the stage for future episodes, where listeners can anticipate the challenges and triumphs involved in pioneering ice hockey in a predominantly soccer-oriented nation.

John Kitumaini [30:15]: "There were only two of us then. Hardly a team. But Sam and I had found each other. And we'd found the ice."

The Host wraps up the episode by inviting listeners to continue following the Ice Lions' journey, ensuring they stay engaged with the unfolding story.

Host [31:26]: "Now that you're done with episode one of Ice Lions, go to Imagination Amplified and listen to episode two right now to find out what happens next."

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Key Themes and Insights

1. Pursuit of Passion: John's transition from soccer to ice hockey underscores the importance of following one's true passion, even when it deviates from societal expectations.

2. Cultural Challenges: Establishing ice hockey in Kenya highlights the cultural barriers and logistical challenges of introducing a non-traditional sport to a country.

3. Unity and Togetherness: The concept of "Harambe" plays a crucial role, emphasizing teamwork and collective effort in overcoming obstacles.

4. Mentorship and Collaboration: The partnership between John and Samuel illustrates the significance of mentorship and collaboration in achieving ambitious goals.

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Notable Quotes

• Host [00:04]: "Ice Lions is gonna stick the landing."
• John Kitumaini [05:14]: "With Kobe hurt and the game in extra time, the coach sent me in."
• John Kitumaini [10:01]: "I had to be on the ice."
• Samuel [19:36]: "I've been watching you play... I can tell you love the game more than the others."
• John Kitumaini [29:28]: "We can bring something new to Kenya. Harambe."

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Conclusion

"Introducing Ice Lions" serves as a compelling introduction to the Six Minutes podcast series, blending personal ambition with broader cultural narratives. Through John's journey, listeners are invited to witness the birth of Kenya's first ice hockey team, promising a blend of heartfelt storytelling, cultural exploration, and the relentless pursuit of dreams. As the series progresses, the foundation laid in this episode sets the stage for an inspiring tale of resilience, unity, and the transformative power of sports.

Transcript

[Host]

Oh, hey, there you are. I love ice skating. And if you love ice skating too, you'll love our newest GZM show, Ice Lions. It's a brand new story coming out weekly on our Imagination Amplified feed. Inspired by the remarkable and heartwarming true story of the Ice Lions, Kenya's first and only national ice hockey team. And it's the only ice hockey team in East Africa. Now, I'm not even being dramatic when I say that Ice Lions is one of our most unique sounding GCM shows we've ever made. Most of our cast is from Kenya and we had to have recording sessions at like 4 in the morning with all of them while on Zoom all the way from Nairobi. We even flew Chris, one of the show creators, out to Kenya to record all the music. How cool is that? We're dropping the first episode of Ice Lions here in this feed for you to listen to. But when you're done sending search for Imagination Amplified to listen to episode two out right now. And be sure to click that follow button on Imagination Amplified so you get every episode of Ice Lions as it comes out weekly. It's an amazing show. That sounds so good, you guys. Almost as good as this Triple Axel. Ow.

[Coach]

Okay.

[Host]

Well. Okay, well, at least I tried. And you should really Try Episode 1 of Ice Lions coming up next. It's like no other GCM show you've ever heard before. But I promise that unlike my Triple Axel, Ice Lions is gonna stick the landing. Okay, now go listen to Ice Lions right after this ad break while I ice my body not on the ice like with an ice pack. Six Minutes is brought to you by Progressive Insurance. You chose to hit play on this podcast today. Smart choice. Make another smart choice with Auto Quote Explorer to compare rates from multiple car insurance companies all at once. Try [e-mail] Progressive Casualty Insurance Company and affiliates not available in all states or situations. Prices vary based on how you buy.

[Advertiser]

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[Coach]

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[Host]

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[Coach]

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[Host]

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[John Kitumaini]

Ice Lions is inspired by a true story and recorded in Nairobi, Kenya. This is not a story about a team of underdogs who come together to defeat a mighty opponent. There are no Olympic gold medals in the inspiring tale of the Kenyan Ice Lions. No championship trophies. Not yet anyway. It's a story about something called Harambe. Harambe. The word means all pulled together. In Swahili, Kenya's national language. It's our motto, our tradition. For me, it's always felt like a calling to bring people together. My name is John Kitomaini, but you can call me John. From the time I was young, I believed that I could share the spirit of Harambe with the world somehow. But the world had other ideas. Back then, I had the same dream as almost every boy in Nairobi. To become a soccer star.

[Coach]

Great job, guys. Keep it up.

[John Kitumaini]

But I was never as crafty as the fast boys or as fierce as the strong ones. So I spent most of our matches as the loudest cheerleader on the sidelines. Then one day when I was 15, during the league championship match, my big moment finally arrived. Our best player, Kobe, went down.

[Coach]

I can still play, right, Coach? How? You can barely walk. No. We're only down one goal and there's less than a minute left. Who's gonna replace me on the field? John?

[John Kitumaini]

Yes.

[Coach]

Yes. I can go in, Coach.

[John Kitumaini]

This is a whole season.

[Coach]

Kitumaini, are you sure you're ready? I practice harder than anyone. I'm the first one on the field and the last to leave. And I always put the team first. I even had my mum bake mandazis for the game.

[John Kitumaini]

Mandazi are like delicious sweet doughnuts famous in Kenya. And my mama made the best.

[Coach]

Fine. I do love those mandazi. But don't let me down. I won't. I promise.

[John Kitumaini]

With Kobe hurt and the game in extra time, the coach sent me in.

[Coach]

Yes. This is it, John. Your moment to inspire and unite.

[John Kitumaini]

Dribbling between one defender after another, I felt unstoppable. The goal looked like it was huge in front of me. The coach was hollering for me to shoot.

[Coach]

I can do it. I won't let the team down.

[John Kitumaini]

I lined up to take my best shot on goal when a defender came from behind and tackled me to the ground. But that meant I would get a penalty kick. With no time left on the clock, the game came down to me. A goal could save us the championship. All that stood between me and my future was one free kick and one mean looking goalkeeper.

[Coach]

You have no chance, kid.

[Host]

No chance.

[Coach]

Right. Okay. Mark your steps. Right in the corner. Nice and easy.

[John Kitumaini]

As I struck the ball, time itself seemed to slow down for me. The ball left the ground, taking with it all my hopes and dreams. Joining the Harambe stars, playing in the World Cup. Bringing people together not just in Kenya, but all over the world. Every player on that beach watched as my kick just sailed through the sky like a flaming comet, spinning and spinning off the crossbar and into the referee's head.

[Advertiser]

Oops.

[Coach]

Sorry, guys.

[John Kitumaini]

I never really liked soccer anyway. I didn't know it yet, but my destiny was on the ice.

[Coach]

Ice Lions an original Audio Adventure Episode.

[Samuel]

One All pulled together.

[John Kitumaini]

After the game, my teammates and I hopped on a matatu, a public bus that rode through the city with its doors open. Kobe and the others were still laughing at me for my unlucky penalty.

[Coach]

Not the referee's skull, right? He thought it was going in, and then maybe the wing took it. Or next time, stay on the bench where you belong. Leave John alone or I'll kick you off my bus at the next stop.

[John Kitumaini]

We don't. Owti Owiti was the matatu conductor. He stood in the doorway next to the bus driver, and he knew everyone with his stylish clothes and wise words. When he talked, we listened.

[Coach]

Thank you, Owiti. And may I say, we should all look at this as an opportunity to learn about ourselves. We ought to be supporting each other through this loss, growing as a team. Or you can learn how to kick a football.

[John Kitumaini]

I was tired of your jokes.

[Coach]

That's it. I'm getting off. Where's the togetherness? Where is the generosity of spirit? Oet. Hold the bus.

[John Kitumaini]

Jo, you know I love a dramatic.

[Coach]

Exit, but this is not your stop.

[John Kitumaini]

Your house is nowhere close to here.

[Coach]

I find my way home, and I'm taking my mandazi.

[John Kitumaini]

John, go home. Nairobi, Kenya. The green city in the sun. A bustling metropolis with a wild safari park right on its doorstep. A place so full of life, you could almost see it. Breathing, moving. The people, the skyscrapers, the shops and markets. But as day turned into night, I started to wish I had stayed on the bus with my team.

[Coach]

What was I thinking? How am I going to get home? Taxi. Taxi. No, wait. Please. It's fine. Nice night for a walk. Where is that coming from?

[John Kitumaini]

I followed the sounds into a crowded sports cafe in the heart of Nairobi.

[Coach]

Wow. That's definitely not.

[John Kitumaini]

Football on that television screen was a sport I had never seen. Huge men moving so fast, yet with such elegance on a smooth, white surface.

[Coach]

Is that eyes?

[John Kitumaini]

They were using sticks to pass this tiny flat ball faster than my eyes could keep up.

[Coach]

Oh. Like magic.

[John Kitumaini]

As I watched them skate around in celebration, I knew being on the boring old ground would never again be enough for me. I had to be where they were. I had to be on the ice. Ah.

[Coach]

Buana. Could you please change the channel back?

[John Kitumaini]

What are you doing in here? Kid. But I was the only one who wanted to watch the game. And the manager told me I needed to go.

[Coach]

Sorry. Do you know what that game was called? Oh, that. It's that western sport.

[John Kitumaini]

Ice hockey. But you're too young to be here alone.

[Coach]

I know I look young, but actually 20. Stop pushing me. Leave me alone and don't come back and deal. Your old enough to shave. Okay.

[John Kitumaini]

I walked the city, sneaking into every place I could find.

[Coach]

I just want to watch the game.

[John Kitumaini]

And got thrown out of each one. But then I had another idea. An Internet cafe. I convinced the owner to let me use a computer for important research. Which meant watching every ice hockey video I could find. National Hockey League highlights, even tournaments for kids my own age.

[Coach]

This is so cool, Omar.

[John Kitumaini]

I was so amazed by what I saw, I completely lost track of time.

[Samuel]

Closing time.

[Coach]

What? But it's only 10:00. Oh, no. My parents. Asante sana. Thank you.

[John Kitumaini]

As I walked home, I imagined myself as one of those hockey players on tv.

[Coach]

Kitumaine is getting down the ice around one defender. He shoots his scores. And there are his proud parents in the stands.

[John Kitumaini]

It was getting later and later when a bus pulled over next to me.

[Coach]

That Mutatu bus, is that. Still looking for a way home, eh, Oet? Do you know how late it is? It's not my fault taxi drivers don't want to be paid in Mandazi. Can you drive me? Open. Hey, driver, let's go. We're taking John home. They skid on ice and they shoot a flat ball called a puck. I want to try it, Oviti. I want to find a ring.

[John Kitumaini]

Relax.

[Coach]

I'm glad to see you're inspired. But there are no ice rinks in Nairobi, man. Hey, we are here. Thank you for the ride, Oet. Of course. And John, if this ice hockey is your destiny, it will find you.

[John Kitumaini]

The things we are meant for always.

[Coach]

Have a way of finding us, no.

[John Kitumaini]

Matter where we are. But as I got off the bus, my parents were waiting. And they did not look happy.

[Coach]

Hey, there he is. Our son who thinks he is a grown man now and can stay out as late as he wants. Mama. Baba.

[John Kitumaini]

Your mother and I were just deciding on how long you would be grounded for.

[Coach]

Grounded? Good luck. Please, Oedi. Let's see. One week, two weeks, a month. A month is a round number. Right now the Home Depot has spring deals under $20. So no matter what you're working on, the deals are blooming at the Home Depot with savings on plants, flowers, soil and more Then light up your outdoor space with Hampton Bay string lights was $34.97, now only $19.99. And get the grill going with two 16 bags of Kingsford charcoal was $19.98. Now only $17.88. Don't miss spring deals under $20 now through May 7 at the home Depot. Subject to availability.

[John Kitumaini]

Valid on select items only. Once I was finally allowed to leave my room, I took Oiti's advice. I wasn't about to wait for ice hockey to find me, so I went looking for it. There was no ice rink to play on, but I found the next best thing. Hockey on wheels.

[Coach]

Over here. Yeah. Yes, that's it.

[John Kitumaini]

I tried to share my dream with my friend Keone.

[Coach]

Hey, John. That was a great go. Thanks, Kioni. If we were on skates instead of rollerblades, I would have been able to get to the net faster.

[Samuel]

John, enough.

[Coach]

There is no ice. We are in Kenya, not Canada. Can't you imagine gliding on glass? The cool air hitting your face, you know?

[John Kitumaini]

No.

[Coach]

And I don't think about flying with wings either. It's not impossible. Wings or ice.

[John Kitumaini]

When I went to put on my sneakers after, a letter was waiting for me. A letter with my name on it.

[Coach]

Did you write this? Why would I write you a letter? Someone must have left it here on the bench for me. I didn't see anyone. Ok. Let's see. John Kitumaini. If you want to be an ice hockey player, come to the Nairobi Lux Hotel, 7pm Come alone and bring Chavda. Chavda? The snack mix. What if I'm being recruited by some kind of, you know, hockey coach? Deluxe hotel is full of rich tourists from Europe and America. Why would someone come all the way to Nairobi to recruit for their ice hockey team? Ah, talent is talent, Peony. No matter where you find it. You're not actually going to go, are you? No, no, of course not. I'd never do something that crazy.

[John Kitumaini]

Okay, okay. So I would in fact do something that crazy. But only in the name of ice hockey. The Nairobi Lux Hotel was one of the most luxurious in all of Kenya. I approached the front desk. The hotel worker gave me give me a big smile.

[Coach]

Welcome to the Nairobi Lux Hotel. My name is John Kitumayini. I found this letter inviting me to come here. Do you know who it's from? Go to the room with five more than the most goals in history. What? The room with five more than the most goals in history. That's what he asked me to tell you. Who? Who Asked you to tell me.

[Advertiser]

May I help you, Ms. Bakari? Kelvin, who is this young man?

[Coach]

His name is John.

[Advertiser]

Are you a guest of the hotel, John?

[Coach]

No, I. I was invited here, madam.

[Advertiser]

Invited by who?

[Coach]

He made me promise not to tell.

[Advertiser]

Oh, so he is your boss now. He is the one that signs your paychecks.

[Coach]

No, Ms. Bakari. You are my boss. But he. He scares me. Scares you?

[Advertiser]

I'll deal with you later, Kelvin. As for you, young man, the only thing you'll find following this letter is trouble. I suggest you go home. The Nairobi LAX Hotel is no place for nonsense.

[Coach]

But, madam. Excuse me. May I speak with the manager?

[Advertiser]

I am the manager. Ms. Bakay. How may I assist you?

[Coach]

John? Five more than the most goals. Five more. Right.

[John Kitumaini]

When the manager turned her back, I sprinted to the open elevator where a couple of tourists were headed out to their room.

[Coach]

Do you want to go to the pool first thing in the morning?

[John Kitumaini]

I tried to figure out the riddle. Five more than the most goals in history.

[Advertiser]

Really?

[Coach]

Want to see a giraffe? 5 more than the most goals in history. The most hockey goals. Are you talking about Wayne Gretzky? Are you a hockey fan? Do they have hockey fans in Kenya? Sorry, I didn't mean to. Wait. Are you from America?

[Host]

Close.

[Samuel]

We're from Canada.

[Coach]

Canada? Ah, this must be a sign. Do you know anything about when Gretzky's goals? Of course. He had the most of all time.

[Samuel]

But I don't remember the exact number.

[Coach]

I got it. I figured out the riddle. Floor eight. The riddle. Thanks for the help. I'll see you in Canada when I'm a hockey player. What just happened? 8. 9. 9. Please don't be a criminal. Please don't be a criminal.

[Samuel]

Yes?

[Coach]

Hi. Did you write me this letter? My name is John. You must be here for my idiot brother. Does your brother want to put me on an ice hockey team?

[Samuel]

Ice hockey team? What are you. Please stop talking to my guest, Marcy. We have important business to discuss. Discuss? I'm asking Baba for your birth certificate. I need proof you're my brother.

[Coach]

You're a kid.

[Samuel]

I'm Samuel. My friends call me Sam. What friends? I have plenty of friends. You've passed the first test, John. Room 899.

[Coach]

Wayne Gretzky set the all time record with 899 plus 5 equals. 899.

[Samuel]

Well done. Did you bring what I asked?

[Coach]

Um. Here's the chavda. What's it for?

[Samuel]

My favorite snack mix. Congratulations. You've passed the second test. You may call me Sam. Now follow me to my bed. Office. We have much to discuss.

[John Kitumaini]

Yo, yo, yo, yo, yo. His room was like hockey heaven. Hockey on the tv. Posters, jerseys, even a framed hockey stick.

[Coach]

Whoa. Where did you get all this stuff?

[Samuel]

Many of the tourists who come through the hotel are hockey fans.

[Coach]

They just give it to you?

[Samuel]

Sometimes they leave things behind. Sometimes I make trades.

[Coach]

You live in this hotel?

[Samuel]

I always have. My father works in maintenance. I know the LAX better than anyone.

[Coach]

So you get benefits?

[Samuel]

As long as Ms. Bakari, the manager, doesn't catch me.

[Coach]

I just met her. Oh. Is that a signed Johnny Oduya card?

[John Kitumaini]

Johnny Oduya was a professional hockey player from Sweden. And one of my. He rose. His story gave me hope. Because his father was from Kenya.

[Samuel]

Don't touch that. I don't know where your hands have been.

[Coach]

Sorry. So why am I here?

[Samuel]

I've been watching you play.

[Coach]

And you think I'm a great hockey player?

[Samuel]

No, but you're not terrible. And I can tell you love the game more than the others.

[Coach]

Why don't you play with us?

[Samuel]

Because I. Look, I ask the questions. You should know. I'm the president of an exclusive club.

[Coach]

An ice hockey club. How many members do you have?

[Samuel]

Just me at this moment. But I've been considering inviting you to join.

[Coach]

Really? I mean, I would love that.

[Samuel]

Patience. I need to test your knowledge. We'll start with an easy one. Who's the greatest hockey player ever?

[Coach]

Wayne Gretzky, of course.

[Samuel]

What was Johnny Oduya's first team?

[Coach]

No one cares, Sam.

[Samuel]

He's not Wikipedia. Please leave my room, Marcy. I'm just grabbing a water bottle and heading down to run on the treadmill.

[Coach]

Continue with your whatever this is. Look, I don't know every hockey statistic, but I promise I love the game.

[Samuel]

What do you love about it?

[Coach]

Well, I believe it's. It's the most fun sport there. Is it? It takes teamwork and dedication. Did I mention fun?

[Samuel]

You know, I don't think you are a good fit to be a member of my club.

[Coach]

What? Why not?

[Samuel]

To me, hockey is a lot more than some fun game. I thought maybe. Never mind. You should go.

[Coach]

Fine. You're not what I was expecting either.

[John Kitumaini]

My hopes were crushed. I walked to the door with my head hung low. But just as I was approaching about to leave, I spotted the poster of Johnny Oduya. And it made me stop. It made me say what I'd needed to say since the day I first saw ice hockey on tv. No matter how silly it sounded every.

[Coach]

Night in my Room. I take my stick and pretend I'm in a real ice hockey game. Can't even pay attention. In school, I'm always daydreaming about what it will be like to skate on the ice. To flick the perfect pass, slam someone into the boards. But my friends tell me that's all it is. A crazy dream. What I know is this. If it is, it's a dream I never want to wake up from. Goodnight, Sam.

[John Kitumaini]

A dream I know never wanted to wake up from.

[Samuel]

Okay, you're in.

[Coach]

What?

[Samuel]

My sister Marcy tells me my dream is crazy too. Every day there's something I want to show you. But first I have to blindfold you.

[Coach]

Blindfold? Where are you taking me, Sam? And why do I have to wear this dirty sock over my eyes? Shh. I can't see.

[Samuel]

That's the point of a blindfold.

[Coach]

Where are we?

[Samuel]

I'm taking you through the ballroom. Misdirection Ballroom.

[John Kitumaini]

To call you my wife is the greatest honor I could ever receive.

[Coach]

Are we in a wedding?

[Samuel]

Just keep going. Here. Through this door.

[Coach]

What is this?

[Samuel]

This is your final test.

[Coach]

Smells like the swimming pool.

[Samuel]

Just passing through. Place we are going tonight is closed. But I know the way in. But we have to hurry before Miss Bakari finds us.

[Advertiser]

Hey children.

[Coach]

Stop. Uh oh.

[Advertiser]

I told you not to follow that letter, young man. You don't belong here.

[Samuel]

Mama Bakari. Hello. I was just giving my cousin John a tour.

[Advertiser]

Why have you blindfolded your cousin?

[Samuel]

Oh, well, I can explain that.

[Advertiser]

I'm sorry. I didn't want to have to do this.

[Samuel]

Please don't call my father.

[Advertiser]

Your father is a practical man, Samuel. And a valuable employee of the Luxe Hotel. Which is why we generously allow you and your family to live here.

[Samuel]

And we couldn't be more grateful.

[Advertiser]

But what would happen if one of our guests were to post a negative review because of this tour of yours? What if, say, a bride and groom were to raise a fuss about teenagers in blindfolds disrupting their wedding ceremony?

[Samuel]

We didn't.

[Advertiser]

How might that reflect on your father's prospects within the hotel?

[Samuel]

You mean his job?

[Coach]

Mama Bakari.

[Advertiser]

What are you doing down here?

[Samuel]

Looking for my brother Samuel. Papa said to hurry back with the shampoo.

[Advertiser]

Shampoo?

[Samuel]

Yes. The rooms on the club floor are running low. He sent some for a new container. No more games, Samuel. Papa is counting on you. Right. Cousin John and I will take care of it right away.

[Advertiser]

You do that. Mercy. Tell your father I'll see him tomorrow.

[Samuel]

Yes, Mamba Bakari. Goodbye.

[Coach]

Ah. Goodbye.

[Samuel]

Thanks for saving us. Mercy. I had a feeling you were up to no good. You owe me.

[Coach]

You both do.

[Samuel]

Yes. Yes. Come on, Don. Hurry.

[Coach]

You owe me.

[Samuel]

Samuel.

[Coach]

All right. Now I'm getting nervous.

[Samuel]

We are here.

[Coach]

Why? Why is it so cold?

[Samuel]

You can take the blindfold off now.

[Coach]

Final. Oh, my. It can't be.

[Samuel]

It's a brand new ice rink. It was just completed. The only one in all of East Africa. It is meant for the tourists, but I wanted to show you. What are you doing?

[Coach]

Ah. Getting on the ice, of course.

[Samuel]

John, you don't even have skids.

[Coach]

It's so cold. And slippery. Like soap. Whoa. Whoa. It's. It's even more amazing than I imagined. I can't believe I'm here.

[Samuel]

John.

[Coach]

From Nairobi. Kenya. Kenya. Kenya. Kenya. In his first National Hockey League, please welcome the rookie center, number four, John Kitumaini.

[Samuel]

Are you okay? We need to go before Ms. Bakari figures out we are here.

[Coach]

I'm never getting off the ice. Come join me.

[Samuel]

It's not allowed. It's not allowed. I just wanted you to see it.

[Coach]

It's an ice rink. Some. And it isn't millions of miles away. It's right here in Nairobi. Right in front of you, begging you to get on.

[Samuel]

Okay, fine. I'll get on. Whoa. Whoa.

[Coach]

Let's make a team.

[Samuel]

What?

[Coach]

The first ever ice hockey team in Kenya.

[Samuel]

Did you hit your head on the ice? Most people in Nairobi barely know what hockey is. Something like that isn't possible, Johnny.

[Coach]

Of course it is possible. We just have to find others. You know, like us. We can bring something new to Kenya. Harambe.

[Samuel]

Samuel Harambe.

[Coach]

Harambe. But I can't do it alone. No one knows more about hockey than you. I need you.

[Samuel]

Only if I get to be the manager.

[Coach]

Deal. And we should probably learn how to skate fast.

[Samuel]

But I'm there.

[John Kitumaini]

There were only two of us then. Hardly a team. But Sam and I had found each other. And we'd found the ice. The rank was small. Our dreams were big. One day, we would share them. Not just with Nairobi, not just with Kenya. With the world. But on that night.

[Host]

Samuel.

[Coach]

Cuckoo.

[Samuel]

Cuckoo.

[Advertiser]

Come back here. I saw you in here.

[John Kitumaini]

Harambe was a long, long ways away.

[Coach]

She almost got us. Wow. That was definitely worth. Hi, my name is Katinzi Nzambu and I play John in Ice Lions. For more great shows, visit gzmshows.com hey.

[Host]

Me again. Now that you're done with episode one of Ice Lions, go to Imagination Amplified and listen to episode two. Right now to find out what happens next. And be sure to hit that follow button so you don't miss any new episodes. You go do that while I go work on my triple axle.