A data storage system includes a magnetic storage medium and a write head
configured to be positioned adjacent the storage medium and. The write
head includes a magnetic field source configured to apply a magnetic
field to the storage medium and an optical near field coupling structure
configured to locally heat the magnetic storage medium with an optical
near field proximate the magnetic field applied by the magnetic field
source. An overcoat layer on the magnetic storage medium enhances
absorption of the optical near field.