Growing up around sports, Tealani Carbullido found an early love for the sport of basketball.
“My family and I have always been involved in sports. It’s something I grew up in. I was kind of born into it,” says Carbullido. “I played three sports when I was younger, and I fell in love with [basketball]. It’s just kind of something my heart wanted at the time.”
The Rosary Academy senior and three-year varsity player credits the team aspect of basketball for giving her the confidence to interact with those around her.
“Without basketball, I don’t think I would be the person I am with other people,” says Carbullido. “Being part of a team has taught me so much about being a leader…having a group community and being a part of something bigger than just myself.”
And it’s her leadership that has allowed Carbullido to leave her mark on Rosary’s basketball program, as the 17-year-old is a two-time captain and has worked hard to keep their young team focused.
“Tea’s presence as a leader has been immeasurable,” says Rosary varsity basketball head coach, Richard Yoon. “She instills the traditions and expectations of Rosary basketball into all of our newcomers. She models courage and dedication every time she steps on the court. She is a true Royal who exemplifies what it means to be an outstanding student athlete.”
The Royals have seen tremendous success this season, defeating Camarillo High School in overtime 52-51 earlier this month to win the CIF-SS Division 2AA championship. But win or lose, Carbullido always keeps the bigger picture in mind.
“A lot of life lessons that basketball has taught me is being able to interact with different personalities…how to deal with other perspectives and, honestly, grow into a better person,” says Carbullido. “Having that communication is a big part of what Rosary basketball is all about.”
Off the court, the Stanton resident spends time volunteering at Mercy House, a Santa Ana-based organization that provides housing and support to Orange County’s homeless population. There, Carbullido works with kids, an endeavor she would like to pursue in the future.
With goals of continuing to play basketball while studying social work or child development, Carbullido has learned from her family and her faith that God is in charge of the road ahead.
“At a very young age, my parents instilled in me that God always has a plan for us. He blesses us in so many ways,” says Carbullido. “That’s the big role he plays in my faith and in my basketball career. No matter what happens, he’s always there. He has a plan for what’s going to happen next. That’s a big part of what I’ll take on with me forever. Whatever the future brings, I’m ready for it.”