Sports

Happy Khalil Thompson Day: Teaneck Olympians, Siblings Honored By County Officials

Khalil and Kamali Thompson were honored for their Olympic achievements. Now, they also have two days in August named in their honor.

Khalil Thompson of Team United States replaces Andrew Mackiewicz of Team United States during their match against Team Hungary in Men's Sabre Team on day five of the Tokyo 2020 Olympic Games at Makuhari Messe Hall on July 28, 2021 in Chiba, Japan.
Khalil Thompson of Team United States replaces Andrew Mackiewicz of Team United States during their match against Team Hungary in Men's Sabre Team on day five of the Tokyo 2020 Olympic Games at Makuhari Messe Hall on July 28, 2021 in Chiba, Japan. (Elsa/Getty Images)

TEANECK, NJ — Kamali and Khalil Thompson aren't necessarily household names. As fencers, the sport carries with it a niche audience.

But in Bergen County, if you haven't heard the names of the multi-talented brother-sister duo yet, you certainly will soon.

The Bergen County Board of Commissioners honored the Teaneck-raised Thompson siblings with their own days. Aug. 18 is Kamali Thompson day, and the following day, Aug. 19, will be named for Khalil.

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"Thank you to the Bergen County Executive, Commissioners Office, County Sheriff, and Town of Teaneck for recognizing myself and my sister for represent Team USA at the 2020 Olympic Games. We appreciate the love & support from home and are proud to represent Teaneck & Bergen County," wrote Khalil, who was a part of the men's sabre team at this year's Olympics.

Kamali was selected as an Olympic alternate for the women's team.

Find out what's happening in Teaneckfor free with the latest updates from Patch.

County Executive Jim Tedesco called it a "distinct honor" to host the Thompson siblings at the meeting upon their return from Japan.

In addition to her fencing prowess, Kamali Thompson is also orthopedic surgery resident and owner and creator of the brand Saber & A Stethoscope.

Khalil also does work outside of fencing, using his platform to raise awareness around depression and anxiety, having himself been diagnosed with both.

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