I used to be a PE teacher; at my school a cup was mandatory for Baseball, Softball, Hockey, LaCrosse but I always recommended it if there was a chance a ball, stick or ski pole or cleat could come in contact with your family jewels. Many people think it's overkill but I had a near tragic incident playing racquet-ball once and wear a soft cup now. The biggest controversy for jock and cup wear seems to be in Soccer, given a choice with how aggressive sports can being played... I would wear a cup.