McDermott to coach USA at 2017 Rugby League World Cup

Brian McDermott has confirmed he will coach the USA team at the 2017 Rugby League World Cup in Australia, New Zealand and PNG.

McDermott is still the head coach of the Leeds Rhinos and led the club to a treble success in 2015, but the club have made a slow start to the new season.

McDermott had volunteered to guide the Hawks as head coach as they secured qualification into the World Cup next year, and has decided to stay on leading the national side through the tournament. 

“I’m very pleased to have been invited to continue my role with the USARL and to take the Hawks to the 2017 Rugby League World Cup,” McDermott said.

“What’s already been achieved is the result of a lot of hard work and commitment with much more preperation required. I’m looking forward to working alongside a dedicated group of people that have demonstarted the desire to succeed and are willing to make the necessary changes in order to adapt.”

“Rugby League around the world needs brave people and those who are willing to make the necessary sacrifices to establish their mark. That philosophy instilled within the USARL is as much an attraction as it is working with the players again and one which enable the team to qualify.”

USARL Chairman, Peter Illfield has aready expressed his delight to keep McDermott for the World Cup.

“Brian’s involvement has had a profound impact on our players wanting to improve their rugby league skills at both home and abroad,” he said.

“We’re thrilled that he values the type of culture and organization that we’re building in the USA. The sport will only get better here from now on.”