During Saturday afternoon’s half-time show, Peruna VIII exchanged reins with Peruna IX, who is assuming the role of SMU’s sole living mascot after 14 years of service by Peruna VIII. (Spencer J Eggers/ The Daily Campus)

When the words ferocious, fierce and cute occur in one sentence, you can only be talking about SMU’s Shetland pony, Peruna IX.

The 4-year-old pony made his debut for fans on Saturday when Peruna VIII stepped down during halftime at SMU vs. UCF football game.

As he proudly stood in the end zone, the Mustangs raced towards him to score a total of 21 points in the 3rd and 4th quarters leading to another SMU victory.

Even though Peruna is a Shetland pony, he has always embodied the powerful spirit of a mustang.

The Perunas before the new number IX have left a long history and tradition over the past 70 years.

Peruna I made his first mascot appearance in 1932 at the SMU vs. Texas A&M football game.

He was named ‘Peruna’ after a popular tonic that contained 18 percent alcohol and was known for being “full of kick.”

Unfortunately, on Halloween of 1934 the miniature stallion escaped from his on-campus living quarters and was struck and killed by a vehicle on Mockingbird Lane.

After the death of Peruna I, Perunas II, III and IV carried on the Mustang’s fighting spirit for SMU.

Since the late W.E. Culwell generously donated Peruna II in 1932, the Culwell family has provided each pony that has served SMU, including both the legendary Peruna IV and Peruna V.

While Peruna IV led the SMU football team to two consecutive Southwest Conference Championships, Peruna V made history in a new way.

Peruna V is the infamous stallion that killed New York’s Fordham Ram.

He served SMU for 15 years before Peruna VI took over and served for 21 years, the longest run to date.

However, it is the beloved Peruna VIII who marched in President George W. Bush’s Inauguration Parade. While he is known for dragging handlers across the field, SMU has cherished Peruna VIII since 1997.

Even before Peruna VIII handed down the reigns, it was clear that Peruna IX was destined for SMU.

Selected when he was only a colt, Peruna IX was found by the Culwell family merely days before he was scheduled for castration.

His feisty personality makes him the perfect candidate to represent the Mustangs.

On Saturday, Peruna IX showed his strong personality as he galloped across the field with handlers on each side at lightning speed.

Join Peruna IX along with the rest of the SMU community to root on the Mustang football team during Homecoming at Gerald R. Ford Stadium on Nov. 5.

The Mustangs will take on the University of Tulane at 2 p.m.  

Video shot and edited by Sydney Giesey, [email protected]