Obama congratulates Coughlin on victory

WASHINGTON — President Obama called Giants coach Tom Coughlin yesterday to congratulate him on the team’s victory over the New England Patriots in Super Bowl XLVI.

Coughlin, 65, said in an address to thousands of fans at MetLife Stadium that he had spoken with the president, telling the audience at the rally that Obama lauded the Giants’ courage.

The White House said Obama told the coach that “the team’s victory was a testament to Coach Coughlin’s leadership and that his team came across with true grit and determination.”

“President Obama told Coach Coughlin that he looks forward to shaking his hand and congratulating the team in person when they visit the White House,” the White House statement said.

Coughlin is celebrating his second Super Bowl title as coach of the Giants.

The Giants closed the season with six straight victories to take home their second Super Bowl title in the past four years, and the fourth in franchise history.