Who Is Ben Ohai? Complete Guide to Kealia Ohai’s Father, Family, and Legacy

Quick Bio: Ben Ohai

Early Life and Hawaiian Roots

Ben Ohai was born in Laie, Hawaii, a small town known for its strong Polynesian culture and deep sense of community. Growing up in this environment instilled in him values of respect, unity, and perseverance—qualities that would later define his approach as both an athlete and a father. His childhood in Hawaii exposed him to a lifestyle deeply connected to family and cultural tradition, shaping his belief in supporting and uplifting loved ones. At the age of ten, his family relocated from Hawaii to California, a move that brought significant changes but also opened new doors.

This transition required resilience and adaptability, qualities that Ben embraced early and that would prepare him for the challenges and opportunities of adulthood. The Hawaiian traditions of family-first living and strong cultural pride remained with him, even as he adjusted to life on the U.S. mainland, ultimately influencing the way he later raised his own family.

Education and Academic Journey

Ben’s academic journey reflects a commitment to both learning and personal growth. He began his higher education at Cerritos College in California, where he developed his athletic skills while pursuing his studies. His dedication and talent eventually led him to Brigham Young University (BYU), where he balanced academics with an intense focus on wrestling, establishing himself as a formidable competitor on the mats.

During this period, he not only earned recognition for his athletic ability but also built relationships that would change the course of his life, including meeting his future wife, Cindy. After his time at BYU, Ben continued his education at the University of Utah, further expanding his academic and professional knowledge. This diverse educational path gave him the tools to navigate both athletic and professional spheres, and more importantly, it instilled in him the value of perseverance in both physical and intellectual pursuits.

Athletic Career: Wrestling at BYU

While Ben Ohai is best known today as a supportive father, his own athletic career deserves recognition. During his time at BYU, Ben established himself as one of the top collegiate wrestlers, achieving an extraordinary record of 116 wins and only 8 losses. His accomplishments earned him the honor of being a two-time All-American, cementing his place among the elite athletes of his era. Wrestling taught him discipline, mental toughness, and the importance of preparation—lessons that would later influence how he approached fatherhood and mentorship.

Although he chose not to pursue wrestling professionally, the sport became a lifelong foundation for his character. The principles of hard work, resilience, and determination that he mastered on the wrestling mats would later serve as guiding philosophies in raising his daughters and supporting their individual dreams, particularly Kealia’s journey in professional soccer.

Marriage and Family Life

During his years at BYU, Ben Ohai met Cindy, the woman who would become his lifelong partner and the cornerstone of their family. Their marriage blossomed from shared values of faith, discipline, and mutual support, creating a strong foundation for raising their four daughters. Together, Ben and Cindy emphasized education, sports, and personal integrity, encouraging their children to pursue their passions while always remaining grounded in humility. Their household became a nurturing environment where love and structure coexisted, enabling their daughters to thrive both personally and professionally.

Children of Ben and Cindy Ohai

Kealia Ohai Watt

The most well-known of Ben’s daughters, Kealia Ohai Watt, rose to fame as a professional soccer player, representing both the U.S. Women’s National Team and clubs in the National Women’s Soccer League (NWSL). Known for her speed, determination, and leadership on the field, Kealia’s career has been marked by both success and resilience. In 2020, she married NFL star J.J. Watt, further cementing her place in the spotlight. Throughout her journey, Ben has remained a steadfast supporter, often seen at her games and recognized as one of her biggest sources of encouragement.

Megan Ohai Cushing

Megan Cushing, formerly Megan Ohai, also excelled in athletics, playing soccer at the University of Southern California (USC). After her college career, she shifted her focus to fitness and wellness, becoming a fitness influencer and blogger. Her passion for health and lifestyle resonates with thousands of followers. She is married to Brian Cushing, a former NFL linebacker, with whom she shares both family life and a dedication to athleticism.

Cambria Ohai

Unlike her sisters, who pursued sports more publicly, Cambria Ohai focused her path on academics and business. She studied marketing at Utah Valley University, later building a career in business and marketing strategy. Known for her ambition and analytical skills, Cambria keeps a relatively private life while contributing to the family’s reputation for excellence in various fields.

Aubrey Ohai

The youngest of the Ohai sisters, Aubrey graduated from New York University in 2022. Intelligent, creative, and driven, she is at the start of her professional journey. Aubrey’s experiences living and studying in New York City highlight her adaptability and determination, qualities reflective of the strong values instilled in her by her parents.

Role as a Father and Mentor

As a father, Ben Ohai has been more than just a supportive parent; he has served as a mentor, role model, and constant source of encouragement for his daughters. He could often be found on the sidelines of Kealia’s soccer games, cheering her on while also teaching her how to balance competitiveness with grace. His wrestling background gave him a deep understanding of discipline and resilience, which he instilled in his daughters through everyday lessons about hard work and persistence.

Rather than imposing pressure, Ben provided steady guidance, allowing his children to develop their own passions while knowing they had his unwavering support. His influence is visible not only in their achievements but also in the humility and grounded values they carry into their adult lives.

Career as an Educator and Community Involvement

Beyond his family, Ben Ohai built a professional life rooted in education and community service. He worked within Utah’s Granite School District as a teacher, using his experiences as an athlete and mentor to inspire students. His teaching style reflected patience, resilience, and an ability to simplify complex challenges into manageable steps, much like he approached wrestling training.

The classroom gave him another opportunity to positively impact young people, encouraging them to strive for excellence both academically and personally. In addition to teaching, Ben remained active in his community, participating in local events and supporting youth sports programs. His life as an educator highlights his commitment to shaping not only his family but also the broader community around him.

Public Image and Social Media Presence

Unlike his daughters, who maintain varying degrees of public visibility, Ben Ohai prefers to live a life away from the spotlight. He has little to no personal social media presence, choosing instead to appear occasionally in posts shared by his children, particularly Kealia and Megan. This low-key approach reflects his philosophy of focusing on family and real-life connections rather than public attention. Fans who do catch glimpses of him online often see him at games, family celebrations, or community events, always with the same humility and authenticity that define his character. His quiet strength and modesty set him apart in an era when many pursue recognition, underscoring his commitment to values over fame.

Challenges and Overcoming Adversity

Like many who relocate at a young age, Ben Ohai faced the challenge of leaving behind the familiarity of Hawaiian life when his family moved to California. Adapting to a new cultural and educational environment required resilience, but it also gave him the tools to succeed later in life. As a Polynesian athlete, he had to navigate the pressures of representing his heritage while excelling in a demanding sport, proving himself in a competitive collegiate environment.

Later, as a father and educator, Ben faced the challenge of balancing personal ambitions with the responsibilities of raising a family and supporting children in high-profile sports careers. His ability to overcome these obstacles with humility and perseverance is a testament to the values that define him.

Net Worth and Lifestyle

Although Ben Ohai’s exact net worth is not publicly documented, estimates place it around $1 million, largely reflecting his career as an educator and his investments in family life rather than public or commercial ventures. Unlike celebrities who build wealth through endorsements or media appearances, Ben’s financial life has remained private and modest.

His greatest wealth lies not in monetary terms but in the success and happiness of his daughters, each of whom reflects the values he and Cindy instilled. His lifestyle is one of quiet fulfillment, centered on family gatherings, community involvement, and supporting the continued growth of his children and grandchildren.

Legacy and Influence

The legacy of Ben Ohai extends far beyond his personal achievements as a wrestler or educator; it is most clearly reflected in the lives of his daughters and the values they embody. Each child carries forward the lessons of resilience, humility, and dedication that he emphasized, whether on the soccer field, in business, or in everyday life. His role as a mentor has influenced not only his own family but also the countless students he has guided throughout his teaching career. For those who know him personally, Ben is remembered as a man whose quiet presence left a profound impact, proving that true influence does not always require the spotlight.

Connection to JJ Watt and Extended Family

Ben Ohai’s family gained additional public recognition when his daughter Kealia married NFL star JJ Watt, one of the most accomplished defensive players in modern football. As father-in-law to Watt, Ben has embraced an expanded role in a family that now bridges both soccer and football at the highest levels of competition.

The bond between the Ohai and Watt families has been celebrated publicly, but for Ben, it represents simply another extension of the family values he has always prioritized: love, respect, and support. His acceptance of Watt into the family underscores his belief in strengthening relationships and celebrating unity, regardless of public attention.

Conclusion

The story of Ben Ohai is one of resilience, humility, and devotion to family. From his early years in Hawaii and his wrestling triumphs at BYU to his career as an educator and his role as the father of four accomplished daughters, Ben has lived a life defined by dedication and quiet strength. His most visible legacy is the success of his daughter Kealia, but his true influence extends across his entire family and community.

For those who wonder “Who is Ben Ohai?” the answer lies not only in his achievements but in the values he passed on: perseverance, love, humility, and the importance of supporting others. His life serves as a reminder that the most enduring impact is often built away from the spotlight, in the daily acts of guidance, mentorship, and unwavering support.

FAQs About Ben Ohai

1. Who is Ben Ohai?
Ben Ohai is a former BYU wrestler, educator, and proud father of four daughters, including professional soccer star Kealia Ohai Watt.

2. Where was Ben Ohai born?
He was born in Laie, Hawaii, and later moved to California at the age of ten.

3. What sport did Ben Ohai play in college?
Ben was a successful wrestler at Brigham Young University (BYU), where he earned All-American honors twice.

4. Who is Ben Ohai’s wife?
Ben is married to Cindy Ohai, whom he met while attending Brigham Young University.

5. How many children does Ben Ohai have?
He has four daughters: Kealia Ohai Watt, Megan Ohai Cushing, Cambria Ohai, and Aubrey Ohai.

6. What is Ben Ohai’s net worth?
His net worth is estimated to be around $1 million, based on his career in education, athletics, and family investments.

7. Is Ben Ohai active on social media?
No, Ben prefers to keep a private life and maintains a low social media presence, though he occasionally appears in his daughters’ posts.

8. What values is Ben Ohai known for?
He is known for his dedication to family, discipline from his wrestling career, resilience, and community involvement in Utah.