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He led the Rhinos to Super League glory last year, the fourth time in seven years.
He is also the most successful and longest serving coach in the club’s history.
But McDermott insists none of that will stop the supporters from giving him flak if the champions lose a few games.
He said: “I have got a lot of experience and what that has taught me is that it’s going to be as tough as anything.
“It was tough last year and the year before and I do not think I have ever had an easy year, ever since I have been here.
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“It was tough last year and the year before and I do not think I have ever had an easy year, ever since I have been here”
Brian McDermott
“Every year people call for Gary Hetherington to resign, for us to get rid of certain players and they call for me to be sacked.
“What’s gone before is something to be proud of when you are drinking a cup of tea on your own or maybe when I’m old and greyer.
“But it doesn’t mean we are 10 yards in front of anyone. But I am confident that we are ready and I cannot wait to play.”
Leeds need to hit the ground running with two tough Super League games before they fly to Australia for the World Club Challenge.
The Rhinos have just five days in Melbourne before they take on NRL kings Melbourne Storm and then fly back for another League game just days later.
It’s a gruelling schedule but McDermott added: “We have a chance of coming back as world champions and a chance of doing something really special.
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“It has not been done in Australia since Wigan beat Brisbane but if we win it’s an achievement that will surpass that.”
McDermott has named his strongest possible squad for Sunday’s friendly at Grand Final opponents Castleford with new signings Richie Myler, Nathaniel Peteru and Brad Dwyer all set to play while Brett Ferres (knee) and Stevie Ward (shoulder) miss out.