Ben Ohai is a former college wrestler and proud father of four daughters, including American soccer star Kealia Ohai Watt. While he stays away from the public eye, his story is one of hard work, strong family values, and quiet support. Born in the beautiful islands of Hawaii, Ben built a life centered on sports, education, and raising a loving family. Many people first hear about Ben Ohai because of his famous daughter Kealia, who became a star in women’s soccer. But Ben has his own story worth telling. From his time as an outstanding wrestler at Brigham Young University (BYU) to his role as a devoted husband and father, Ben shows what it means to lead by example.
Biography Table
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Ben Ohai |
| Birthplace | Kauai, Hawaii, United States |
| Nationality | American |
| Ethnicity | Polynesian (Samoan/Hawaiian) |
| Hair Color | Brown |
| Eye Color | Dark Brown |
| Current Residence | California, United States |
| Education | Cerritos College, Brigham Young University, University of Utah |
| Occupation | Former Wrestler, Educator |
| Wrestling Record | 116 wins and 8 losses |
| Major Achievement | Two-time WAC Champion, Two-time NCAA All-American |
| Wife | Cindy Ohai |
| Children | Kealia, Megan, Cambria, and Aubrey |
| Famous For | Father of soccer star Kealia Ohai Watt |
Early Life and Hawaiian Roots
Ben Ohai was born on the island of Kauai in Hawaii. His exact birth date is not public, but we know that Hawaii shaped who he became. Growing up surrounded by Hawaiian culture taught Ben important values like family unity, respect, and staying humble.
His daughter Kealia’s name comes from Kealia Beach in Kauai, showing how much Ben wanted to keep his children connected to their Hawaiian roots. This small detail tells us a lot about Ben’s love for his birthplace and heritage.
When Ben was ten years old, his family moved from Hawaii to California. This was a big change for a young boy. Moving to a new state meant new schools, new friends, and new challenges. But this experience also taught Ben how to adapt and stay strong during difficult times.
Education and Academic Journey
Ben took his education seriously. He attended several schools throughout his life, starting with Cerritos College in California. After that, he went to Brigham Young University (BYU), where he would meet both his future wife and achieve great success in wrestling.
Ben also studied at the University of Utah. While we do not know exactly what subjects he studied, his time at these schools helped shape his future. More importantly, BYU is where Ben’s life changed in many ways, both in sports and in love.
Wrestling Career
Ben Ohai was not just a good wrestler. He was one of the best of his time. At BYU, he compiled a career record of 116 wins and only 8 losses. This is an amazing achievement that shows his skill, discipline, and hard work.
Ben won the Western Athletic Conference (WAC) championship twice during his college career. He competed at 190 pounds and never lost a single match to any WAC opponent throughout his time at BYU. In 1974, he went through the entire season without a single loss.
His talent earned him recognition at the national level. Ben finished third at the 1973 NCAA Championships and improved to second place at the 1974 NCAA Championships. This made him a two-time NCAA All-American, which is one of the highest honors a college wrestler can receive.
In 1974, Ben was also selected to wrestle in the prestigious NCAA East-West All-Star match. This honor was given only to the best wrestlers in the country. His achievements were so impressive that BYU inducted him into their Hall of Fame in 1983.
After his competitive career ended, Ben did not leave wrestling behind. He returned to BYU as an assistant wrestling coach and later became the head wrestling coach at Spanish Fork High School and Cottonwood High School in Utah.
Meeting with Cindy
Ben’s time at BYU was also when he met the love of his life, Cindy Ohai. The two connected through shared values and experiences at the university. Their relationship grew into a strong marriage that has lasted for many years.
Ben and Cindy built their family together with patience and love. They raised four daughters: Megan, Kealia, Cambria, and Aubrey. Each daughter grew up in a home that valued hard work, kindness, and supporting each other’s dreams.
Their marriage is a wonderful example of partnership and teamwork. Ben and Cindy have always supported their daughters through every challenge and success, creating a family bond that remains strong today.
Ben’s Four Daughters
All four of Ben’s daughters have followed their own paths in life, each one successful in her own way.
Kealia Ohai Watt
Kealia is the most famous of Ben’s daughters. Born on January 31, 1992, in Draper, Utah, she became a professional soccer player in the National Women’s Soccer League (NWSL). She played for the Houston Dash from 2014 to 2019 and then for the Chicago Red Stars from 2020 to 2021.
Kealia’s biggest achievement was scoring the winning goal in the final of the 2012 FIFA U-20 Women’s World Cup, helping the United States beat Germany 1-0. She also won the NCAA Championship with the University of North Carolina in 2012.
Interestingly, Kealia was born with partial sight in one eye, but this never stopped her from becoming a soccer star. In 2020, she married NFL player J.J. Watt, and they now have two children together.
Megan Cushing
Megan, the oldest daughter, was born on July 22, 1989. She played soccer at the University of Southern California (USC) and was part of their 2007 NCAA Championship team. After her playing days, Megan became a fitness expert and blogger. She was previously married to NFL player Brian Cushing.
Cambria Ohai
Cambria is known for being ambitious and detail-oriented. She earned a bachelor’s degree in marketing from Utah Valley University and has built a career in business. She prefers to keep her life private but remains close to her sisters.
Aubrey Ohai
Aubrey is the youngest daughter. She graduated from New York University in 2022. Like her sisters, she values family and is often seen spending time with them at gatherings and celebrations.
A Father Who Leads by Example
What makes Ben Ohai special is not just his wrestling achievements. It is the way he has supported his daughters throughout their lives. Ben has always been present at games, school events, and important moments. He taught his children the same values he learned as a wrestler: discipline, perseverance, and staying humble.
Kealia has often expressed her gratitude for her father’s support. On Father’s Day in 2018, she shared a heartfelt photo with Ben on Instagram and wrote a touching message thanking him for always believing in her.
Ben’s approach to fatherhood shows that being a great parent is not about seeking attention. It is about being there when it matters most, offering guidance, and letting your children know you believe in them.
Conclusion
Ben Ohai’s life shows us the power of quiet strength and family love. From his days as a champion wrestler at BYU to his role as a devoted father and husband, Ben has lived a life built on hard work, humility, and support for others. His greatest achievement may not be any trophy or title, but the strong, successful family he helped raise. Through his example, Ben reminds us that being present and supportive can have a lasting impact on the people we love most.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Who is Ben Ohai?
Ben Ohai is a former college wrestler and the father of American soccer star Kealia Ohai Watt. He was born in Hawaii and is known for his impressive wrestling career at Brigham Young University, where he had a record of 116 wins and 8 losses.
2. What sport did Ben Ohai play?
Ben Ohai was a wrestler at Brigham Young University (BYU). He was a two-time WAC champion and a two-time NCAA All-American. He finished second and third at the NCAA Championships during his career.
3. How many children does Ben Ohai have?
Ben Ohai has four daughters: Megan Cushing, Kealia Ohai Watt, Cambria Ohai, and Aubrey Ohai. Each daughter has pursued her own career and interests while staying close to the family.
Get verified insights on News Writer
