Former Collingwood and Western Bulldog player Josh Mahoney has been named captain of the Essendon VFL side for the 2002 season. Mahoney played his first season with the Bombers in 2001 and impressed with his ability to kick goals up forward and his creativity through the mid-field. Mahoney was rewarded with selection in the 2001 VFL side. Essendon football manager Matthew Drain said the club had no hesitation in offering Mahoney a VFL contract after what it had seen last season. ""He was an excellent performer last season and we think he will make an excellent leader. He has plenty of experience and sets a fine example on the training track and on match day,"" Drain said.