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MARSHALL -- SMSU football has a unique tradition before every home game, and it may not be what you would expect.
For years, the Mustangs have taken the field with a horse leading the way. It is a tradition that has become a favorite among the team and fans alike.
Sean Carmody is the current owner of Babe, the horse that makes the runout before each SMSU home football game.
Carmody and his wife are both graduates of Southwest Minnesota State University, and he said being able to be part of a tradition like this is a special opportunity.
"There are some challenges like weather or finding a rider, but this year we have been very fortunate," Carmody said.
Carmody said he would also like to find more SMSU students who are interested in riding Babe. Those interested can contact the SMSU athletic department, which will then put them in touch with Carmody.
While the runout is a unique part of gameday, Carmody said there is plenty of preparation that goes into getting Babe ready.
"We have to get the trailer hooked up, and the horse loads like a dream. From there, we get her cleaned up, and she knows what is going on," Carmody said.
Carmody typically gets the rider on Babe about 30 minutes before kickoff, giving the rider time to loosen the horse up and help her relax before the runout.
Fans can also get up close with Babe before the game.
"We park the horse on the east side of the stadium. There are kids that love to pet the horse," Carmody said.
Outside of SMSU football games, Carmody and Babe also attend 4-H shows, which is where he typically finds riders for the runouts.
Babe has been part of the tradition for roughly a decade, and Carmody said the experience has been rewarding from the beginning.
"She has been a really good horse. This has been a tradition for us for around ten years, and I have loved every part of it," Carmody said.
For those who have not experienced an SMSU football game, watching Carmody and Babe lead the Mustangs onto the field has become a must-see part of the experience.
The Mustangs return to action Saturday, Oct. 3, when they host Minnesota Duluth for their annual homecoming game. Kickoff is scheduled for 3 p.m.