BENTON HARBOR, Mich. (AP) — Benton Harbor couldn’t compete with Zeeland West in the high school football playoffs. But coach Elliot Uzelac says the loss doesn’t spoil an amazing season.

Uzelac is the 74-year-old former college coach who turned Benton Harbor around in just one season. The Tigers made the playoffs after losing 19 consecutive games.

Uzelac says he loves the players “dearly” and plans to lead them again in 2016. He fought back tears Friday night as he explained the importance of the season. He says his players did well once they were given guidance, love and discipline.

Benton Harbor was crushed by Zeeland West, 62-8, in the district championship.

Uzelac was head coach at Navy and Western Michigan and a longtime assistant at Michigan under Bo Schembechler.