The AFL's Greater Western Sydney franchise have added promising 17-year-old Jack Hombsch to their fledgling roster.

The versatile tall defender becomes the first South Australian to secure a contract with GWS and will join coach Kevin Sheedy's squad in 2011.

From Roxby Downs, a mining town in northern SA, Hombsch joined Adelaide-based Sturt after catching the eye of football manager Duane Massey at a school visit three years ago.

"To have actually signed an AFL contract is just so surreal," said Hombsch.

"For something I have always dreamed of to actually come true, it's taking a while to sink in. Its a very exciting time for me.

"I think signing the contract is a huge relief as I don't have to worry about the draft - it's done.

"But more importantly I've got a really exciting opportunity to be a part of something from the start."

"Working with one of the greatest ever coaches in Sheeds and people like Gubby Allan and Al McConnell just enhances the excitement for me. I cant wait to get there, said Hombsch.

Team GWS high performance manager Alan McConnell praised Hombsch's work ethic and natural ability.

"He has a very diligent work ethic like a number of country boys.

"He really likes to ensure that everything he does, he does it well ... We certainly know he likes to take a big mark."

GWS has now signed six of a possible 12 priority under 17 year olds, under the club's list concessions.

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