Oct. 5, 2005

BELLINGHAM, Wash. -

JOE SUNNEN, THE BELLINGHAM HERALD

Western Washington University wide receiver Andy Olson practiced with the team for the first time in more than three weeks on Tuesday despite continued soreness in his left knee.

Olson sprained the medial collateral ligament in his knee against St. Cloud State on Sept. 10. On Tuesday, he worked with the starting offense, running routes and participated in all of the Vikings' practice drills.

"It's getting better every day," Olson said. "It's still not 100 percent. The quickness and cutting ability is a concern right now, but it's coming along."

The preseason All-American is expected to play this Saturday against Central Washington University in Seattle at Qwest Field.

"I definitely want to play in this game," Olson said. "I've been looking forward to this one all year."

Olson wore a brace on his knee during practice and is still trying to regain the explosiveness that has made the senior so successful. Olson is one touchdown catch away from tieing the school record for most in a career.

"It still feels a little loose, but the brace helps that," Olson said. "I'm also looking into getting a different brace so that should improve things."

Olson worked out with the team during pre-game warm-ups last Saturday against Humboldt State, but didn't take the field during the game.

"It felt OK on Saturday night. That's probably the best way I can put it," Olson said. "It wasn't to the point where I felt like I could have performed as a high level, but it's gotten better since then."

WWU coach Rob Smith said Olson is about 80 percent right now, and he expects him to play against Central.

"Andy is still getting better," Smith said. "But it sure is good to see him back out here again."