Submitted photo Elkins Middle School student AJ Friedman recently placed first in the state Hoop Shoot competition in Charleston.

ELKINS — Elkins Middle School sixth grader AJ Friedman earned a spot in regionals by capturing first in the 12-13-year-old division at the state Hoop Shoot competition in Charleston.

Friedman, representing Elks Lodge 1135, is a member of the EMS junior varsity basketball team and the Randolph County Lightning travel basketball team.

He will now travel to Fredrick, Maryland, on March 9 for regional action.

The winners from regionals advance to Chicago, Illinois, for nationals.