WASHINGTON (AP) – President Bush huddled at the White House for a second time with New England Patriots, winner of two Super Bowls.

“Congratulations for getting back here to the Rose Garden,” Bush told the team Monday. “My hope, of course, is that I’m back here again to see you next year.”

In February, New England won its second Super Bowl in three years, beating Carolina 32-29 on Adam Vinatieri’s 41-yard field goal with four seconds left. Two years before, Vinatieri kicked the game-winner as time expired in New England’s 20-17 win over the St. Louis Rams to give the Patriots their first National Football League championship.

“I appreciate the dramatic comebacks that you are capable of making,” Bush said. “I like it when a kicker ends up winning the game. … I know Adam is with us today. I am really impressed at how cool you are under fire. And how – like I need a few suggestions before a press conference, if you don’t mind.”

While lauding the team’s undefeated record at home, Bush has special praise for the players’ commitment to volunteer service. Team members have given thousands of hours to community groups across the state and New England.

“That is an unbelievably important example for champions to set for others,” said Bush. “It’s one thing to be a champ on the field, and obviously, that’s what every player strives for. But to be able to be a complete person like you have been is really important.”

Bush also singled out quarterback Tom Brady, who was a guest of first lady Laura Bush at the president’s State of the Union speech in January. “I’m trying to figure out what it’s like to be around a real celebrity,” Bush joked about Brady.

Also on hand for the Rose Garden ceremony was Patriots coach Bill Belichick, and Congress members from Massachusetts, Reps. Edward Markey and James McGovern, both Democrats.

AP-ES-05-10-04 1819EDT