McDermott honoured to take on American challenge

Leeds coach Brian McDermott is relishing the chance to take the United States to the Rugby League World Cup in 2017.

The USA Hawks face off against Canada and Jamaica in a three-way qualifying tournament on American soil in December.

McDermott ended up in the role of USA coach thanks to the Rhinos’ preseason visits to Florida in recent years.

“We went out there with the Rhinos and I was talking to the management about a whole range of things to do with rugby league, whether that’s being in a supposed grassroots area – which I’ve got experience with working with London – but also other things too,” McDermott told the Yorkshire Evening Post.

“We were talking about the coaching side of things and it was all born out of that, they asked if I’d go over and help them and it’s an honour to try and get them qualified.

“We’re not necessarily favourites. It’ll be a good challenge. The chance is there to qualify for the 2017 World Cup, but it’ll be a big task.

“Jamaica and Canada are growing in momentum and they’re continuing to recruit some impressive heritage players, so it’ll be a challenge to get qualified and get through.”