In an emotional farewell, Ko Hee-jin, the coach of Red Sparks, was seen shedding tears as he bid goodbye to star player Megawati Hangestri Pertiwi on April 10, 2025. The moment captured the deep bond between the coach and the athlete, who has decided not to extend her contract with the team. Megawati expressed her sentiments with a heartfelt message, saying, "I hope you all stay healthy until we meet again next time, thank you." This marked the end of her journey with Red Sparks, a team she joined during the 2023-2024 season.
Megawati, who has been a powerhouse in the league, has chosen to prioritize family over her volleyball career. Reports indicate that she opted not to renew her contract due to her desire to care for her mother, who is currently in poor health. This decision comes after two successful years where she made a significant impact in the Korean Volleyball League.
During her debut season, Megawati made an immediate impression, ranking 7th in the league with 736 points and leading her team in scoring. Her performance helped Red Sparks secure a third-place finish in the regular season. In her second season, she elevated her game further, finishing 3rd in the league with 802 points and achieving an impressive overall attack success rate of 48.06%. She led in various offensive categories, including open attacks and counterattacks, showcasing her versatility and skill on the court.
Megawati's contributions were pivotal in leading Red Sparks to the championship playoffs, where they faced off against Hyundai Hillstate. The playoff series was intense, with Red Sparks advancing after two wins and one loss. Megawati's prowess was on full display as she played a crucial role in the final championship match against the Pink Spiders. Despite a valiant effort, Red Sparks fell short, losing the series 3-2 after a thrilling five-game showdown. In the final, Megawati was again the top scorer, racking up 37 points in a remarkable display of her abilities.
Her performance did not go unnoticed; Kim Yeon-kyung, a legendary figure in Korean volleyball and captain of the Pink Spiders, acknowledged Megawati's talent, stating, "She has developed into a truly formidable player and has elevated the level of our volleyball." Kim, who led her team to victory, remarked on the fierce competition Megawati brought to the league, suggesting that facing her in international play would be a daunting challenge.
While Megawati's time with Red Sparks comes to an end, her legacy in the league is undeniable. Her coach, Ko Hee-jin, expressed sadness at her departure but also pride in her accomplishments. "We support Mega's new challenge and hope to collaborate with her again someday," he stated. The team management echoed these sentiments, highlighting her dedication and positive personality that endeared her to teammates and coaches alike.
As Megawati steps away from the Korean Volleyball League, she leaves behind a remarkable record. In addition to her scoring accolades, she was known for her sportsmanship and the ability to connect with others in the sport. Her agent revealed that despite her happiness during her tenure at Red Sparks, family obligations ultimately guided her decision.
Looking ahead, Megawati's future remains uncertain, but she may consider opportunities in Indonesia's domestic league or in Southeast Asia, potentially in countries like Thailand or Vietnam. The volleyball community will undoubtedly miss her presence, but her contributions have paved the way for future players.
As the dust settles on this chapter, Megawati's impact on Korean volleyball will be remembered fondly. Her journey from a promising debut to becoming a top scorer and beloved teammate exemplifies the spirit of sportsmanship and dedication. As she embarks on a new path, fans and fellow athletes alike wish her the best in her endeavors and hope to see her back on the court soon, whether in Indonesia or beyond.
