How Did SMU Mustangs Get Their Name?
The SMU Mustangs, representing Southern Methodist University in Dallas, Texas, have a name that evokes the spirit of freedom and the American West. But what's the story behind this galloping name? Let's find out.
The Mustang Connection
The name "Mustangs" was chosen to symbolize the qualities of speed, agility, and independence. The mustang is a free-roaming horse of the American West, and it perfectly encapsulates the ethos of the university's athletic teams.
The Mascot: Peruna
The team's mascot, Peruna, is a live Shetland pony that makes appearances at various SMU events. Named after a popular tonic of the early 20th century, Peruna serves as a symbol of the university's energetic and spirited nature.
