Teams almost always perform better in their home park, but Bishop Chatard softball co-coach Kim Wright thinks a road trip might be exactly what her team needs after scoring just two runs during a 1-3 start.

The team will compete in the Midwest Catholic Challenge tonight and Saturday in Louisville, Ky.

"It's frustrating because this is the most talented team we've put in Chatard uniforms, and we're not getting it done at the plate," said Wright, who shares coaching duties with Kim Duncan.

"Louisville has always been a coming-together time for us. Instead of going home (individually) after the game, the team goes back to the hotel. It's an environment we've thrived in, and we're looking for it to jump-start this season."

Wright said the team's problem lies in its chemistry. Players have been doing team-building activities such as challenge courses, bonding activities in the middle of practice and team meetings ranging from the entire roster to small groups. ("A team psychologist is next on the list," Wright joked.)

This will be the Trojans' ninth trip to the event in Louisville, which includes one game tonight and at least three Saturday. The program has reached the championship game in its pool three times, including in 2003 and '05.

"We've been (coaching) here 10 years and, head and shoulders, this is the best team we've had," said Wright, who singled out the performances of pitcher Katie Johnstone and catcher Erin McCalley.

"The goal, regardless of wins and losses, is always sectionals. As long as we're doing what needs to be done come sectional time, I'm fine with a losing record (in the regular season)."