Ben Ohai is the father of American soccer star Kealia Ohai Watt, a former collegiate wrestler at Brigham Young University, and a Hawaiian-born family man whose quiet influence helped shape one of women’s soccer’s most recognisable names. While he has never sought the spotlight himself, Ben’s story of discipline, faith, and fatherhood offers a rare look at the values behind a professional athlete’s success. This article explores his background, his wrestling career, his family life, and the lasting impact he has had on his four daughters.
Ben Ohai: Quick Facts
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Ben Ohai |
| Known For | Father of soccer star Kealia Ohai Watt |
| Birthplace | Kauai, Hawaii, USA |
| Education | Cerritos College, Brigham Young University, University of Utah |
| Athletic Background | Collegiate wrestler at BYU (116 wins, 8 losses); WAC champion; undefeated 1974 season |
| Spouse | Cindy Ohai |
| Children | Kealia Ohai Watt, Megan Cushing, Cambria Ohai, Aubrey Ohai |
| Notable Connection | Father-in-law of NFL star J.J. Watt |
| Public Profile | Low-key; maintains a private social media presence |
| Importance | Represents the supportive family foundation behind a professional athlete’s career |
Who is Ben Ohai?
Ben Ohai is best known as the father of Kealia Ohai Watt, a professional soccer player who represented the United States women’s national team and played in the National Women’s Soccer League. He was born in Hawaii and moved to California with his family at the age of ten, carrying his island heritage with him throughout his life.
Away from his daughter’s fame, Ben has lived a private life centred on family, faith, and community. He rarely appears in public interviews, choosing instead to let his daughters’ achievements speak for the values he instilled at home.
Early Life and Hawaiian Heritage
Ben was born on the island of Kauai, Hawaii, a place that remained close to his heart long after he left. His upbringing was shaped by traditional Hawaiian values, including respect for family, community, and nature.
His connection to home never faded. When his daughter Kealia was born, Ben named her after Kealia Beach, a well-known surfing spot on Kauai and the place of his own birth. This gesture reflects how deeply his roots continued to influence his family life, even after decades away from the islands.
Education and Wrestling Career at BYU
Ben’s academic path took him through Cerritos College before he enrolled at Brigham Young University, where he also spent time at the University of Utah. It was at BYU that he built a formidable reputation as a collegiate wrestler.
He compiled an outstanding college wrestling record of 116 wins against just 8 losses, a mark that included a Western Athletic Conference championship and an undefeated 1974 season. Wrestling taught him discipline, focus, and mental toughness, lessons he later passed on to his children as they pursued their own athletic careers.
Marriage to Cindy Ohai
Ben met his wife, Cindy, while both were students at BYU. Their shared values and mutual respect formed the foundation of a marriage that has lasted for decades.
Together, Ben and Cindy raised four daughters in a household built on faith, encouragement, and hard work. Cindy managed much of the family’s daily life while Ben remained a steady, supportive presence, attending games, school events, and family milestones throughout his daughters’ upbringing.
Ben Ohai’s Four Daughters
Ben and Cindy Ohai have four daughters, each of whom has followed her own path:
- Kealia Ohai Watt – A professional soccer player who represented the United States women’s national team and played for clubs including the Chicago Red Stars and Houston Dash. Born in Draper, Utah, on 31 January 1992, she is married to NFL star J.J. Watt.
- Megan Cushing – The eldest daughter, who played soccer at the University of Southern California and later became a fitness expert and blogger. She is married to former NFL linebacker Brian Cushing.
- Cambria Ohai – A graduate in marketing from Utah Valley University who has pursued a private career in business.
- Aubrey Ohai – The youngest daughter, a graduate of New York University who is at the early stage of her professional journey.
Ben’s Role as Kealia Ohai Watt’s Father
Ben’s support for Kealia’s soccer career has been consistent from her early playing days through to her professional career. He attended her games, offered encouragement during setbacks, and supported her through injuries that tested her resilience.
Kealia has publicly acknowledged this bond. On Father’s Day in 2018, she shared a photo with Ben on Instagram, thanking him for always believing in her. This public gesture reflects a relationship built on trust and quiet encouragement rather than pressure.
Relationship with J.J. Watt
Ben’s relationship with his son-in-law, NFL star J.J. Watt, is grounded in shared values around hard work, humility, and family commitment. Both men understand the discipline required to succeed in competitive sport, and their mutual respect has helped strengthen ties between the Ohai and Watt families.
Ben Ohai’s Personal Life and Privacy
Ben keeps a low public profile. He maintains a private Instagram account and prefers to stay out of the media spotlight, even as his daughter’s career has drawn national attention.
His net worth and current occupation are not publicly documented, which is consistent with his preference for privacy over public recognition.
Why Ben Ohai’s Story Matters
Ben Ohai represents a common but often overlooked figure: the supportive parent behind a professional athlete’s success. His story shows how discipline learned through sport, combined with steady family support, can shape a child’s path to achievement without the parent ever seeking credit.
Conclusion
Ben Ohai’s life reflects a quiet blend of Hawaiian heritage, athletic discipline, and devoted fatherhood. From his wrestling success at BYU to his unwavering support of Kealia Ohai Watt’s soccer career, Ben has shaped his family through consistency rather than fame. His story offers a genuine reminder that strong family values often matter more than public recognition.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is Ben Ohai?
Ben Ohai is the father of American soccer player Kealia Ohai Watt. He is a Hawaiian-born former collegiate wrestler at Brigham Young University known for his supportive role in his daughters’ lives.
Where was Ben Ohai born?
Ben Ohai was born on the island of Kauai, Hawaii. He moved to California with his family at the age of ten.
Why is Kealia Ohai named after a beach?
Kealia Ohai was named after Kealia Beach in Kauai, Hawaii, the place where her father Ben was born. The name reflects the family’s deep connection to their Hawaiian heritage.
How many children does Ben Ohai have?
Ben Ohai has four daughters: Kealia Ohai Watt, Megan Cushing, Cambria Ohai, and Aubrey Ohai. Each has pursued a distinct career path shaped by the values instilled at home.
Is Ben Ohai related to J.J. Watt?
Yes, Ben Ohai is J.J. Watt’s father-in-law through his daughter Kealia Ohai Watt, who married the NFL star in 2020. The two families share a close and respectful relationship.
