I was invited to help with a High School tournament that they were short of umps several years ago. One ump was working the plate with a mask and cup only. I didn't check him so I'm not sure he even had a cup.:-) If you hide behind the catcher your not using the correct mechanics. I do some ISA and there are guys who don't wear their equipment either. I am not one of them. I guess I'm a wimp but I don't care what level of ball it is I wear it all.