K.O.P.S. Teen Tennis Night planned at Payne Park Tennis Center on Friday, Nov. 4

Sarasota Police Department, City of Sarasota Parks and Recreation Department, Robert L. Taylor Community Complex staff and Payne Park Tennis Center staff partnering on event

The City of Sarasota Parks and Recreation Department is partnering with the Sarasota Police Department, the Robert L. Taylor Community Complex, and the Payne Park Tennis Center to present “K.O.P.S. Teen Tennis Night” on Friday, Nov. 4, from 6 p.m. to 10 p.m., the Police Department has announced.

“K.O.P.S. — Kids and Officers Promoting Solidarity — is a special program created to promote positive relationships between local youth and law enforcement,” a news release explains.

“The K.O.P.S. events are an incredible opportunity for kids in our community to spend time with Sarasota Police officers in a fun and safe environment,” said Sarasota Police Chief Rex Troche in the release. “The different events, which feature sports activities and food, are a unique chance for kids to have fun while getting to know the officers who serve and protect the neighborhoods they live in,” Troche added in the release.

The event has been planned for youngsters ages 10 to 15, the release notes; “it will offer a free and safe evening that will include tennis skill-building games, fun in the Court 13 game room, and demonstrations from the Sarasota Police Department. All tennis skill levels are welcome,” the release adds.

“Food, refreshments, and supervision will be provided — all free of charge!” the release emphasizes. Each participant also will also receive a free T-shirt.

The program, which is open to as many as 50 youngsters, will be held at the Payne Park Tennis Center, located at 2050 Adams Lane in downtown Sarasota, the release points out.

Registration is required. Parents and guardians may register their children online at https://kops-tennis.eventbrite.com/ or they may stop by the Robert L. Taylor Community Complex (1845 John Rivers St. in Sarasota) Monday through Friday between 6 a.m. and 8 p.m. or on Saturday between 8 a.m. and 1 p.m., the release says.

“Free transportation from North Sarasota is available, leaving from the Robert L. Taylor Community Complex,” the release notes. Drop-off will be at 5:30 p.m., while pick up will take place at 10 p.m., the release says.

Participants needing transportation should select the “Transportation” ticket option during registration, the release advises the public.

For more information, contact the Robert L. Taylor Community Complex by calling 941-263-6562.