It’s Not Funny
Everyone enjoys a witty teammate, but sarcasm often sabotages a team.
Witty wisecrackers may see their remarks as clever, but because the distinction between a joke and an insult can be nebulous, they can easily damage relationships with their one-liners.
Check out the where the word sarcasm comes from – “deriving from a Greek word meaning “to strip off the flesh,”. I definitely recommend sharing this definition with your team.
Sarcasm is so prevalent in teen culture that I’m afraid that young athletes might be losing the ability to be sincere.
So what is a coach to do?
Since “you can’t do a don’t do”, just telling them to stop will not be very effective. I suggest introducing them to a new habit – acknowledgement, it’s a primary fuel folks run on. Start by modeling acknowledgement for your players. It’s not manipulation. Acknowledgement is about letting people know you’re paying attention to them.
If you want your players to acknowledge each other, start by acknowledging them on a regular basis. Make sure what you say is truthful and specific – do not “blow smoke” – that’s manipulation. When giving acknowledgement, speak in the first person. Talk to them, not about them!
NOTE: Since we usually reserve our acknowledgement for big results, be sure to notice the small stuff as well.
Subscribe in a reader OR 
In business we call it “catch them doing something right” – we as coaches / managers often high-lite the things employees/players can do better, which is constructive to a point – but can wear anyone down. I try to make a point of “catching them doing something right” – It is harder then it may seem to do, without. looking like you are “blowing smoke.” But it is an effective motivator and encourages repeat behavior