Red Bud Elementary eighth grade student Cooper DeSpain advanced out of the Okawville SIJHSAA Individual Golf Regional held Monday with a score of 43 on the back nine.
DeSpain will now play in the SIJHSAA State Tournament at Rend Lake Golf Course on May 9.
He is the first Red Bud Royal to advance to state for golf.
This is the first year Red Bud Elementary has competed in golf. The Royals had successful team play this season and at this time, there is no team competition at the regional or state level. All golfers compete as individuals.