NRL legend and ESPN's own Brett Kimmorley has joined the United States Hawks as an assistant coach for the 2017 Rugby League World Cup.

Since retiring as a 307-match player in 2010, Kimmorley has held various coaching roles ranging from a specialist halfback coach at Canterbury Bulldogs to a senior coach position at Wests Devils Rugby League.

Kimmorley, 40, says he's thrilled for the opportunity to work alongside head coach Brian McDermott of the Leeds Rhinos.

"I'm very excited and honoured to be part of the coaching staff for the U.S.A. Hawks team in the 2017 World Cup. Brian is a very successful coach in the Super League and I look to educate myself from the time we spend together," Kimmorley said.

"I look forward to sharing my knowledge of the game and assisting the players with their performance not only in the World Cup, but also when they return to America.

"I have played in a World Cup and view it as the pinnacle of international game and will do my best to achieve the best results that we can."

The Hawks have won their past five competitive matches -- including the annual Colonial Cup against Canada -- and will be confident of growing even stronger with Kimmorley on board.

The 2017 Rugby League World Cup will be held in Australia, New Zealand and Papa New Guinea with the United States' first match to be against Fiji in Townsville, Queensland.