13-year-old youngest ever in RI Amateur

EAST PROVIDENCE, R.I. (WPRI) - The youngest competitor in next week's Rhode Island State Amateur will be 13-year-old Matthew Corio.

In fact, the Smithfield native is the youngest person ever to play in the 109-year-old event.

"I was really surprised that I was so young compared to other people," Corio said. "It's pretty good that I can do something that older people have done."

"It's going to be a little overwhelming for him, but I think he'll handle himself fine," Rhode Island Golf Association executive director Bob Ward said.

Corio may be new to the tournament, but he isn't new to golf. He's played the game since he was two-years-old.

"My mom and dad introduced to the sport," Corio said. "I like how it's so challenging, and it's fun to score low. It's pretty much my only good sport, and I love the game."