Midfielders and forwards in soccer are often divided into two groups: goal scorers and facilitators. It can be hard to find a player who excels in both areas.

Junior Katrina Guillou is one of these unique players who consistently finds the back of the net, and sets her teammates up to score.

With Guillou leading the charge, the UNC Wilmington women’s soccer team is off to a 4-3 start and, after challenging three ACC teams in the first six games, they have their sights set on a special season in the CAA.

“We definitely can make it to the tournament, and the Final Four is definitely realistic to us,” Guillou said. “We had a great season last year and I definitely think we’re a better team this year.”

Guillou led the Seahawks last year with 10 goals and six assists. She also ranked among the top five players in the CAA in both of those categories on her way to garnering First Team All-CAA accolades.

“We want teams to key in on her,” said head coach Paul Cairney. “I think Katrina thrives on that because she’s really difficult to track. She’s quick and makes smart runs off the ball. Even when she’s not scoring, she’s so hard to contain she’s opening up the field for other players.”

Guillou said she spent a lot of time this offseason working on her conditioning and shooting. Despite her prolific scoring last year, she wants to become even better in front of the net and score more goals this season

“I did a good job in the summer getting here early and often to work on my packet,” Guillou said. “One thing I needed to work on was my recovery after games. Aside from that, becoming in all around better player with my touch and scoring.”

The highlight of Guillou’s season thus far came in UNCW’s opening match against the NC State Wolfpack when she opened up this year’s scoring tally. After receiving a cross inside the box from Lindsey Byrne, she stretched out her leg and poked the ball past the keeper for a goal, displaying the athleticism that has earned her a glowing reputation around the league.

UNCW suffered a tough loss to NC State and went 1-2 against the ACC teams they faced early this season. Their lone win came against Wake Forrest last weekend.

However, Katrina and the rest of the Seahawks know this early experience against quality opponents can only help their chances later on in the year.

“It’s giving us a confidence boost,” Guillou said. “Now we know we can play with these teams. Coming back into our own conference we will be even more ready.”

The Seahawks open up their conference slate in Delaware on Sept. 26. Their first home conference game will be Oct. 3 when they play host to William and Mary.