By KEVIN DEVLIN

He’s a polite youngster who’s having a great time growing up in South Boston. His name is Dan “The Man” Mahoney.

Dan, 13, is the son of Jason and Mary Rae. He also has a younger brother named Jake. His grandparents are Steve and Carolyn Mulrey and Kathleen and Billy Rae.

Dan formerly attended Saint Peter’s Academy and South Boston Catholic Academy. Currently, he’s in the seventh grade at Catholic Memorial High School in West Roxbury. He’s an Honor Roll student and his favorite subject is math. He’s undecided on what he wants to do later in life. He has time to make up his mind, but for now, he should just enjoy life the way it was meant to be enjoyed.

Dan’s favorite color is blue. His favorite food is pizza. He loves reading mystery novels and sports books. And, his favorite professional athletes are Patriot’s quarterback Tom Brady, and Bruins player, Jimmy Hayes.

In his leisure time, Dan enjoys snowboarding with family and friends locally and in New Hampshire, Maine or Vermont. He loves spending his summers down the cape in his family’s home. And, when he has the extra time, he plays pick-up hoop games either at the Walsh Center gym, the Tynan gym or at M Street Park when weather permits.

In the world of sports, Dan has played baseball since his tee-ball days. He is used in the outfield and as a shortstop. He’s played in the South Boston Youth Soccer League for three seasons and one season in the South Boston Pop Warner Football League. But his favorite sport is basketball. Dan’s played in the Gate of Heaven CYO hoop program since he was six years old.

“I like hoop the best,” he said. “I like playing with my friends…and I like the fast pace of the games. I hit a three-pointer during my last game and that felt good.”

Dan’s currently on the seventh and eighth grade travel team, which is coached by Mike Alessandro and Sean Monahan. He’s also on the PS Deli Club in the Gatey cadet house league. Michael Donovan is his house league coach, and loves having Dan on his team.

“He’s a hard working player,” said Coach Donovan. “He’s a pleasure to coach because he listens to what I have to say and does it. He’s always eager to play and always helps the team.”

Dan’s parents are proud of their son. And they should be.

“He’s quiet in front of some people,” his mom said. “But in front of others, he’s like America’s guest…friendly, engaging, and well-liked. He’s well-mannered and people love his company. He’s doing well in school and keeps busy with sports. We love him and are proud of him.”

Dan Mahoney accompanied by his mother, Mary Rae.

Dan Mahoney accompanied by his mother, Mary Rae.