COAL GROVE — The past is trying to help the present.

The Coal Grove Hornets baseball program has a video project using past football game footage to help raise funds to purchase equipment.

Hornet Video Productions — operated by the late Carl Swartzwelder — traces the legacy of more than 30 years of Coal Grove football game.

Thanks to the thoughtfulness of the Swartzwelder family and many others who donated the game footage dating back to the 1950s, the baseball program is now able to sell past games that have been restored on DVD.

Coal Grove baseball coach Dean Mader said through this project “fans, family and friends will be able to relive the excitement of seasons from yesterday by viewing this collection of legendary plays and unforgettable moments.”

Mader noted that the project is not just for Coal Grove fans. Fans of Coal Grove opponents are welcome to purchase game footage of their interest.

The Hornet Audio Visual Club has document the Hornets undefeated Ohio Valley Conference championship and playoff qualifying 2009 season.

“The DVDs are a must-own for every Hornet or local football fan,” said Mader. “By having a collection of Coal Grove football games, this is also a collection of Lawrence County football.”

Besides individual game footage, Mader said there are packages of games offered for Coal Grove and other area fans, especially those teams in the OVC. Videos can be purchased by the season or single-game packages.

Some seasons are incomplete and will be sold at discount prices.

All proceeds go toward the benefit of Coal Grove High School students.

For more information, contact Tyler Waller or Mader at the high school at (740) 532-6345 ext. 1283 or ext. 2160.