Ben Ohai is best known today as the older brother of professional soccer player Kealia Ohai, but he also has his own legacy—particularly in American football. A former standout athlete in college football and a brief stint in professional football, Ben has lived a life full of athletic discipline, family unity, and cultural pride. Born into a sports-loving family in Utah, he made a name for himself on the gridiron before stepping back from the professional sports spotlight.

Quick Bio: Ben Ohai

Early Life and Family Background

Ben Ohai was born on January 5, 1989, in Draper, Utah. He is the firstborn child of Ben Sr. and Cindy Ohai. The Ohai family is known for its rich Tongan heritage on their father’s side and strong American roots from their mother. Growing up, Ben was a natural leader in the household and an early inspiration for his younger sister, Kealia, who would go on to become a professional soccer player and U.S. Women’s National Team member.

Football Career in High School

Ben attended Alta High School in Sandy, Utah, where he quickly made a name for himself as a powerful and agile defensive end. His high school career was marked by speed, strength, and leadership. Scouts began noticing his potential early on, and he was listed among Utah’s top high school football prospects in his senior year.

College Football at the University of Utah

Ben received a scholarship to play football at the University of Utah, one of the top schools in the Mountain West Conference. During his time with the Utah Utes, he played under legendary coaches like Kyle Whittingham and was part of a strong defensive lineup.

While Ben did not reach national fame during his NCAA career, he played consistently and was valued for his discipline, strength, and team-first mentality. He graduated with a degree, focusing on physical education and sports performance, laying the foundation for his future in the health and wellness industry.

NFL Aspirations and Draft Experience

Ben declared for the NFL Draft in 2011 but went undrafted. However, he was invited to multiple rookie training camps and received a short-term opportunity with the Houston Texans’ preseason squad. Although he didn’t make a lasting NFL career, he showed remarkable grit and professionalism, leaving the sport on good terms and avoiding major injury—something many former players cannot claim.

Interestingly, years later, Kealia Ohai would marry J.J. Watt, an NFL superstar who was drafted by the same team Ben briefly trained with, bringing the story full circle.

Life After Football

After retiring from competitive football, Ben shifted his focus to fitness training and health coaching. Based in Salt Lake City, Utah, he now works as a strength and conditioning coach, offering programs for young athletes and adults alike. His athletic background gives him a deep understanding of body mechanics and sports performance.

Ben has also spoken at local high schools and youth camps, where he mentors aspiring athletes, encouraging them to prioritize both sports and education.

Relationship With Sister Kealia Ohai

Ben and Kealia share a strong sibling bond. According to interviews, Kealia credits her older brother as one of her earliest role models. Ben often attended her youth games, gave her tips on training, and taught her mental toughness. Despite their different sports paths—football vs. soccer—the two siblings always supported each other’s goals.

Their family values—faith, discipline, and humility—have been critical in shaping both their athletic journeys.

The Ohai Family Legacy

The Ohai family has produced not one but two high-performing athletes. Beyond Ben and Kealia’s achievements, their family is admired for supporting each child’s passion. Their father’s Polynesian heritage has also played a role in fostering strong community ties and a sense of cultural identity.

The Ohais are now recognized as one of Utah’s most respected sports families.

Connection to the Watt Family

When Kealia Ohai married NFL star J.J. Watt in 2020, Ben gained a famous brother-in-law. Although Ben keeps a lower profile, he has been seen at Watt family gatherings and games. The merging of two athletic families further spotlights the strong sports background and shared values between the Ohais and Watts.

Public Image and Social Media Presence

Unlike his sister and brother-in-law, Ben keeps a very private lifestyle and rarely posts on social media. However, he does maintain a professional LinkedIn profile where he lists his work in fitness and coaching. His low-key public presence reinforces his grounded nature and focus on helping others.

Community Involvement

Ben is active in local community programs, especially in Salt Lake City and the surrounding Utah areas. He often volunteers for youth football clinics, and he supports health and wellness events promoting physical activity among teens. His story resonates particularly well with first-generation athletes and Polynesian youth.

Lesser-Known Facts About Ben Ohai

• Bilingual Speaker: Ben reportedly speaks some Tongan, thanks to his father’s heritage.

• Fitness Advocate: He’s a certified NASM personal trainer (as of 2022).

• Philanthropy: He helps organize annual charity runs in Draper to raise funds for underfunded youth sports programs.

• Mentor Role: Some young athletes credit him with helping them secure college scholarships through his training and mentorship.

What’s Next for Ben Ohai?

As of 2025, Ben continues to work in athlete development, and there’s speculation he may open his own training facility in Utah. Whether he chooses to expand his career in fitness or youth coaching, one thing is clear—Ben’s influence goes beyond his short-lived football career. He is a role model, a mentor, and a family cornerstone, especially in the legacy of his sister Kealia Ohai.

Final Thoughts

Ben Ohai may not have the international fame of his sister Kealia, but his story is equally compelling. From the football fields of Utah to community gyms and mentorship programs, Ben’s life reflects resilience, dedication, and quiet leadership. Whether remembered as a college football star or as the guiding brother behind a soccer icon, Ben Ohai’s journey continues to inspire.

FAQs – Ben Ohai

What sport did Ben Ohai play?

Ben Ohai played American football, primarily as a defensive end. He was a standout player at Alta High School in Utah and continued to play at the University of Utah at the collegiate level. Though he went undrafted in the NFL, he did attend rookie camps and even trained briefly with the Houston Texans. His playing style was physical, aggressive, and marked by smart positional awareness.

How is Ben Ohai related to Kealia Ohai?

Ben Ohai is Kealia Ohai’s older brother. Their close relationship has been well-documented by media and their family. He supported her from a young age and served as one of her early inspirations in sports. Even as their professional paths diverged—Ben in football and Kealia in soccer—their bond remained strong, and he continues to be one of her biggest supporters.

Did Ben Ohai ever play in the NFL?

Technically, Ben Ohai did not play in a regular-season NFL game, but he did attend NFL training camps, including one with the Houston Texans. He was considered a fringe player who had potential, but stiff competition and limited roster space prevented him from securing a long-term contract. Still, his experience at the NFL level speaks to his athletic ability and professionalism.

What does Ben Ohai do now?

Currently, Ben Ohai works as a fitness trainer and athletic coach in Salt Lake City, Utah. He focuses on performance training for young athletes, weight management, and general fitness. He’s involved in mentoring programs and regularly volunteers his time for community sports development, particularly targeting underrepresented youth in Utah.

Is Ben Ohai active on social media?

Ben Ohai is not very active on public social media platforms like Instagram or Twitter. He values privacy and maintains a professional online presence primarily through LinkedIn. His social footprint is minimal compared to his sister Kealia or brother-in-law J.J. Watt, but he is known within local sports circles and training communities.