After a horrific accident in Auto-Shop class Wednesday that officials say could have cost him his life, Grand Valley High School student Jacob White appears to be recovering better than many expected.

Grand Valley Principal, Ryan Frink said Friday that White sustained a major injury to his left leg in the accident and has already undergone two surgeries.  Doctors say he will need one more surgery before going into full recovery mode.

He remains in stable condition at St. Mary's Hospital in Grand Junction.

"He was awake today, lucid, and even cracking jokes with family and friends and that's very promising because we weren't sure he was going to make it when we first saw what happened," said Frink, Friday afternoon.

Frink did not reveal any more details about the accident, due to the open investigation.

"We also want to quell the rumors about his injuries flying around on social media, because most of what's being said is false.  Right now, the only major injury is to his leg," said Mr. Frink. 

Frink said the White will be honored by both his Cardinals teammates and their opponents, the Middle Park Panthers before Saturday's playoff game in Parachute.

"The students here are going to print up t-shirts with his nickname "Cobo" on it and wear them at the game, and sell them for six dollars at the concession stand," said Frink.

Meanwhile, because White was a captain on Grand Valley's football team, both the Cardinals and Panthers will honor him by sending their entire squads to the 50 yard line for the coin toss instead of just the captains.

"We really just want to make sure that Jacob's presence is felt because it helps us remember that there are things more important than a football game," said Frink.