Ben Ohai: The Untold Story of Kealia Ohai Watt’s Father and His Family Life

Ben Ohai is best known as the proud father of American soccer player Kealia Ohai Watt, but his life story is one filled with strength, humility, and family devotion. A former collegiate wrestler from Brigham Young University (BYU), Ben built his life on discipline, faith, and cultural pride. Though he prefers a private life away from fame, his influence as a father and role model continues to shape his family’s success and character. His journey from Hawaii to California, his achievements in sports, and his role as a devoted husband and father show how powerful quiet leadership can be.

Quick Bio

Early Life and Background

Born in the beautiful landscapes of Hawaii, Ben Ohai grew up surrounded by the warmth of island life and the deep cultural values of his Polynesian heritage. From a young age, he was immersed in traditions that emphasized respect, humility, and community—principles that would later guide his approach to family and parenting. When he was ten years old, his family moved from Hawaii to California, marking the beginning of a new chapter that would shape much of his life ahead.

The move exposed him to new opportunities, new cultures, and a broader outlook that balanced his island roots with a mainland education. Though little is known about his early family life, it’s clear that the transition from Hawaii to California left a lasting mark, instilling in him a sense of adaptability and resilience that became central to his character.

Education and Sports Career

As he grew older, Ben’s passion for athletics became clear. He attended Cerritos College before enrolling at Brigham Young University, widely known as BYU, where he became a standout wrestler. His athletic career at BYU remains an impressive achievement, highlighted by a record of 116 wins and only 8 losses. In 1974, he completed an undefeated season and was crowned Western Athletic Conference champion.

These accomplishments spoke volumes about his determination, discipline, and work ethic—qualities that he would later pass on to his children. Wrestling taught Ben not just how to win but how to handle challenges with composure, to stay humble in victory, and to rise after every defeat. The discipline he developed on the mat became a guiding force in his life and a model for the values he would instill in his family.

Family Life of Ben Ohai

One of the most defining aspects of Ben Ohai’s life is his family. He met his wife, Cindy, while attending Brigham Young University, and their shared beliefs and mutual respect laid the foundation for a strong and lasting relationship. Together, they built a home centered on love, faith, and encouragement. The couple had four daughters—Kealia, Megan, Cambria, and Aubrey—each of whom grew up in an environment that valued integrity, kindness, and effort.

Ben’s steady presence and supportive nature helped his daughters grow with confidence and balance. He was the kind of father who attended practices, games, and school events, always cheering from the sidelines while teaching the importance of humility and hard work. His wife, Cindy, managed the busy household with care and dedication, creating an atmosphere where both discipline and love flourished. Together, Ben and Cindy raised daughters who were not only talented but also grounded and grateful for their opportunities.

Cultural Heritage and Faith

Ben Ohai’s Polynesian roots play an important role in who he is. Coming from a Samoan background, he carries with him cultural traditions that emphasize respect for family, community, and elders. These principles became a vital part of how he raised his children. In Samoan culture, family comes before anything else, and Ben has always made it clear that family unity and support are at the heart of a meaningful life. In addition to his cultural background, faith has also been a major influence in his life.

The Ohai family is are member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (LDS), and their faith has guided many of their life decisions. Through their religion, they learned the importance of kindness, honesty, and service to others. Ben’s faith helped him remain grounded through life’s challenges and gave him the wisdom to lead his family with patience and compassion. His cultural and religious values are evident in how his children live their lives—with respect, gratitude, and a desire to make a positive difference in the world.

Relationship with His Children

Ben’s relationship with his daughters is one of mutual love and respect. He has always been more than a parent—he has been a mentor and friend. His involvement in their athletic and academic journeys made a lasting impact. Whether attending games, offering advice, or encouraging them after a loss, Ben’s calm and steady nature gave his daughters the confidence to believe in themselves.

When Kealia faced injuries during her soccer career, Ben’s guidance and emotional support helped her recover with strength and resilience. His approach to parenting focuses on encouragement rather than pressure, allowing his children to grow with independence while knowing they always have their father’s unwavering support.

Relationship with Son-in-Law J.J. Watt

Ben’s relationship with J.J. Watt, his son-in-law, is built on shared values of dedication, humility, and family commitment. Both men understand the hard work required to succeed in competitive sports and the importance of staying grounded despite fame. J.J. Watt has often expressed admiration for Kealia’s upbringing and her family’s values, showing how Ben’s influence continues to extend beyond his immediate family. The respect and warmth between the Ohais and the Watts demonstrate how strong family principles can unite people across different paths.

Legacy and Character

Even though Ben has lived a private life, his legacy continues to grow through his children and the example he has set for those who know him. His approach to life—focused on faith, humility, and balance—has made a lasting impression not only within his family but also in the wider community. Whether it’s attending local events, supporting youth activities, or participating in church gatherings, Ben’s presence is known for its warmth and sincerity. His impact extends beyond his own home, influencing those who cross paths with him and reminding them of the value of steady, quiet leadership.

Lessons and Values

What stands out most about Ben Ohai’s story is not fame or public recognition, but the genuine way he has lived his life. He represents the countless parents who, while not in the spotlight, are the backbone of their families’ success. His story is one of perseverance, humility, and love—the kind of story that doesn’t make headlines but leaves a lasting mark on those who hear it. Through his example, we see that being a great father is not about grand gestures or public praise; it’s about being present, leading with integrity, and nurturing the people you love with patience and care.

Influence Through Sports

Ben’s journey also shows how the lessons learned through sports can translate into everyday life. His years as a competitive wrestler at BYU taught him about dedication, focus, and mental toughness. These lessons became the tools he used to guide his children through their own athletic pursuits. When he watched Kealia rise to national prominence, it wasn’t just a proud moment as a father—it was a reflection of the very principles he had modeled throughout his own life. The same persistence that carried him through wrestling tournaments helped his daughter endure grueling training sessions, and the humility he displayed after victories taught her to value effort more than applause.

Life Today

Today, Ben and Cindy reside in California, where they continue to enjoy a life filled with family and faith. Their children, though grown and leading their own lives, remain closely connected, reflecting the strong bond that was built over decades. For Ben, success isn’t measured by fame or wealth, but by the kind of people his daughters have become—kind, driven, and grateful. His story stands as a testament to how strong family values, when nurtured with love and patience, can produce not only great athletes but exceptional human beings.

Family Influence

Ben Ohai’s influence continues to live on in every aspect of his family’s life. His daughter Kealia’s resilience on the soccer field, Megan’s dedication to health and fitness, Cambria’s professionalism in marketing, and Aubrey’s pursuit of education all echo the same values their father taught them. Through his actions and words, Ben has shown that being a good parent is about more than providing; it’s about guiding with compassion, listening with understanding, and leading by example. His quiet strength and enduring faith make him not only a remarkable father but also a role model for anyone who believes that family is the foundation of success.

Legacy of Love and Faith

In every sense, Ben Ohai represents the power of love, faith, and hard work. His story reminds us that behind every successful individual is often a family whose influence shapes their journey. While the world celebrates Kealia Ohai Watt for her achievements on the soccer field, those who know her story understand that her success is also her father’s. The values he taught her, the faith he instilled in her, and the strength he modeled for her have become the cornerstones of her character.

Net Worth and Professional Life

There are no public details about Ben Ohai’s net worth or professional career after college, as he has always kept those aspects of his life private. His achievements and satisfaction come not from wealth but from the happiness and accomplishments of his family. While his daughter Kealia and son-in-law J.J. Watt are public figures with well-documented careers, Ben remains grounded and private. His sense of fulfillment comes from faith, family, and the legacy of values he has built over the years.

Conclusion