McDermott leaves Quins for Leeds

Harlequins head coach Brian McDermott will leave the club at the end of the season to take up a coaching role at Super League rivals Leeds.

The former Great Britain international began coaching at Huddersfield before joining the Rhinos as assistant and then making the move to the capital to take charge of Quins in 2006.

He said: “I have really enjoyed my four years at Harlequins RL but now feel the time is right time hand over the reins. I want to spend more time with my family who are based in Yorkshire and this opportunity is very exciting.

“I am honoured and proud to have been a part of this great clubs history and leave in the knowledge that Harlequins RL will soon reap the rewards of the hard work and quality coaching taking place throughout London and the South East.

“I have been fortunate to work with some great people during my time here, no one more so than our Chairman and owner, David Hughes. His outstanding commitment and financial backing of this club is only been equalled by his recent show of integrity and decorum in very testing and difficult circumstances.”

McDermott’s last game in charge of Quins will be against Warrington on Friday September 3.

“The role of head coach at Harlequins RL is hardest job in Super League. It is a unique combination of coaching an elite team in a fiercely competitive league and being at the forefront of promoting and developing our sport in the capital.

“The Club has made significant progress under Brian’s stewardship and he has created a blueprint for how Development Clubs invest in, and nurture local talent

“With his commitment to, and his passion for London rugby league, Brian has done a fantastic job at Harlequins RL and leaves with our full understanding and best wishes.”

The former Bradford prop will now link up with Leeds, and form part of Brian McClennan’s coaching staff.

Rhinos chief executive Gary Hetherington said: “We are delighted to have secured an outstanding coach of Brian’s capabilities to join the club. Brian is well know to everyone within our organisation from his first spell at the club. It has been good to see him develop as a coach during his time in London and we are excited to have him on board for next season and beyond.”