Our spirit’s the best in the land
The lyrics from our fight song still ring true – learn the spirit and traditions that make SMU feel like home for so many students, alumni and community members.
Pony pride lasts all year long and shines the brightest during Homecoming. Students compete through their organizations in a variety of activities – from painting wooden Peruna stencils to participating in service activities – to win the day. Alumni come from across the globe and down the street to relive the magic. Families from around the neighborhood surrounding SMU come to watch floats and vintage cars pass by in our Homecoming parade.
Mustang Band
The hub of SMU spirit
On game day, you’ll see the Mustang Band in one of their 30 possible outfits (they are the “best-dressed band in the land,” after all) along with our feature twirler on the field. You won’t want to miss the signature “Diamond M” formation. Passionate supporters of the band help cover expenses and scholarships by way of the Diamond M Club – a tradition of its own dating back to 1970.
Pigskin Revue
You can’t talk about SMU traditions without discussing this variety show. As the oldest tradition on campus – it started in 1933 – Pigskin Revue is a variety show celebrating its 90th anniversary this year. The show, which takes place during Homecoming Weekend, features songs, dancing, comedy and other acts by SMU students, faculty, staff and, sometimes, alumni.
Cheer
SMU cheerleaders lead fans in familiar chants at all football and basketball games, but they also participate in community service events around campus and around the Dallas area. Our cheer team has won four NCA College Nationals titles. Fun fact: The “herkie” jump, named after SMU cheerleader Lawrence Herkimer, was invented here.
Pom
Trained in all styles of dance, the SMU pom squad brings energy and school spirit to every performance, whether at a game or community event. They proudly represent the Mustangs at football games, bowl games, basketball games, tournament play and more.
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Take a lap
Palmer Beldy ’22
“The Boulevard is essentially a big block party. White tents home to students, alumni, faculty groups and vendors will sprawl down the Boulevard as far as the eye can see. So, make sure to explore and say hi to your Mustang fam! I recommend doing a full lap around the Boulevard every game day. You never know who you might see!”
Get your pony ears up!
One of the most important things incoming students learn at orientation is how to properly make pony ears. That’s our hand symbol that we use at football games, other sporting events and any time we sing Varsity. Basically, make a peace sign – now, “relax” it. Rock your pony ears back and forth to the tune of the music.
Stallion spirit
Peruna is our beloved mascot, and you’ll see him parading up and down the football field at games or just hanging around the campus. All Perunas – we’re currently on Peruna IX – have been known for their feisty stallion personalities. They keep their Peruna handlers on their toes, and we’re proud to claim the bold spirit each one personifies.
The next chapter
Our football program dates back to 1915, and has a storied history. You’ll catch the statue of Doak Walker, our standout running back from the 1940s, just outside Ford Stadium (in fact, the national award for the outstanding collegiate running back is named in his honor). Since 2019, SMU has won more football games than any other Division I FBS school in Texas – and in 2024 SMU will join the ACC, alongside schools like Duke, Virginia and Stanford. (Plus, Ford Stadium will add the new Weber End Zone Complex to enhance the fan experience.)
Are you ready to join us?
There’s so much more to explore about SMU – from our academic excellence to our myriad of student organizations, athletic opportunities and community pride. We hope to see you on campus!
