History Behind Peruna

WHERE DOES THE NAME ‘PERUNA’ COME FROM?

During Prohibition there was a popular alcohol-laced over the counter medicine called ‘Peruna Tonic’. The mascot was quickly given the name ‘Peruna’ reflecting this ‘medicine’ (Did someone say ‘spirit’?) There is no longer a double entendre when one hears the name ‘Peruna’, but the lively black stallion has always been a representation of true SMU spirit.

BACKGROUND ON THE HISTORY OF PERUNA

For over sixty years, Peruna’s job was to run across the field after every touchdown. In 1996 at the Cotton Bowl in SMU’s first WAC game vs. Tulsa, the WAC Commissioner told SMU athletic officials that it was not legal and to stop before penalties were given. (Due to incidents in other conferences, the NCAA reviewed guidelines about mascot safety and decided mascots should not be allowed on the field during the time of play.)

Since that time, Peruna leads the team onto the field and runs between quarters. All Perunas (past and present) have been hell to control and stories of antics and misbehavior are legendary. He kicks, he trips up his handlers, and is generally uncooperative. When he takes off with his two handlers, there is often a question as to who’s running who.