Hey Mate

Bit of a shame that your coach hasn't identified specific elements for you to work on. Generally, this 'fear of punches' comes from a slight lack of confidence in certain aspects of your boxing technique. This is very often the case when throwing a right cross for instance, as this shot carries slightly more risk than throwing a jab, and if the shot has faults then it's very easy to be countered by your opponent. Another common reason is having limited defensive tools at your disposal (again it's the coaches job to help instil these in you). Seek to work on things like:

  1. Using more feints to put the pressure back on your sparring partner/opponent.
  2. Practice your basic hand defenses i.e. rear-hand blocks and parries and the double arm block (cover up). Do this even during shadow boxing and bagwork to help develop 'mind maps' of sparring passages.
  3. When you do block or parry a shot, throw a shot back instantly (as your opponent's glove is still in your hand). Again this applies pressure back on your opponent.
  4. Work on combining foot movement (in/out/left/right) with slips, ducks and rolls, always seeking to keep your eyes on your opponent. Openings for your shots will come.
Confidence comes with knowledge. Ask your coach if he/she noticed any pattern or has any tips on what you can work on.

Hope this helps mate, and don't worry, confidence will come!!!!

Fran