With his rookie season under his belt, Keith Bike is now ready for his team to live up to expectations. Bike enters his second season as head coach of Memorial’s boys basketball squad with lofty objectives and a stronger relationship with his players.

“The fact I’m teaching in the school makes a huge difference,” said Bike. “We’re seeing the kids every day for the whole year, and that helps them see how committed we are to them.”

After finishing last season with a .500 record, the Crusaders return six seniors.

In addition, sophomore Ben Copp of Auburn should see some court time during the season. Jeff Sowa, also a sophomore from Auburn, has shown the most potential, according to Bike.

The Crusaders mentor said the mix of underclassmen and veterans makes for a more balanced team. This season’s focus is on strong defense, something Bike said he could not develop last year.

“There was no style of play last year because of the lack of familiarity,” said Bike. “But we’re forming our style this year, and I’ll be on their case defensively. There won’t be any breaks on defense, or we won’t win.”

Bike is joined by former University of New Hampshire football player David Bailey, who adds a new defensive look to the coaching staff. Offensively, the Crusaders look to improve on ball handling and playing with more speed. Aside from meeting Bike’s goals, the Crusaders also have the expectations of their peers to uphold.

When the head coach of twotime defending champion Central, Dave “Doc” Wheeler, called Memorial possibly the best team in the state, Bike took the compliment in stride.

“Oh, he’s just trying to put the pressure on me,” Bike said with a laugh. “Doc’s got the track record to win, so no one’s taking his team lightly. We play them our second game, so it’ll be fun asking Doc about that comment.”

Memorial begins its 2006 campaign on Tuesday, Dec. 19, when it hosts Winnacunnet.