FOXBORO, Mass. (WHDH) — A small 6-year-old Danny Keefe stood tall among the New England Patriots on Sunday. Tom Brady's guest of honor was given a once-in-a-lifetime view from the sidelines.
"For a parent, it's a phenomenal feeling. I can't even imagine what these kids are thinking right now,” said Mark Keefe, Danny’s father.
Danny, a football guy, learned how teammates stick together.
"He was getting picked on for the way he speaks and I didn't think he should be picked on for the way he speaks,” said Tommy Cooney, stood up to bullying.
Danny had been teased for the way he talks and dresses in suits and fedoras.
But the official peewee football team’s water coach didn't have to face being bullied alone.
“I thought I would wear a suit to show him support that he is not always going to be the one who people pick on. He is going to be the one who is loved,” said Tommy.
“They all rallied around him and I think the best message about football is about team and caring about one another,” said Tom Cooney, invited to Gillette Stadium.
Danny's story was seen nationwide.
It caught Tom Brady’s attention and the Pats quarterback personally invited the Bridgewater boy to Foxboro.
Patriots owner Bob Kraft surprised the 6-year-old with a Tom Brady jersey and a new tie for his collection.
“It’s amazing that they wanted us to be here,” Tommy said.
“These kids are all making memories right now for the rest of their lives and it’s something that they will never forget," Danny’s father said.
Maybe Danny will trade in his trademark suits to wear the jersey to cheer on the Pats in the postseason.