After beginning his clerical studies at St Patrick's College in Maynooth, Barry was part of the university's first ever Fitzgibbon Cup team.
[1][2] After beginning his underage career with Ballyphehane, a family connection to Blackpool resulted in Barry subsequently moving to Glen Rovers and sister club St.
After claiming the subsequent Munster Championship title, he was at left corner-back when Glen Rovers beat St. Rynagh's in the 1973 All-Ireland club final.
Barry was drafted onto the Cork under-21 hurling team in 1970 and was an unused substitute for the 1970 All-Ireland final replay defeat of Wexford.
He was panel member when Cork beat Limerick to win the 1975 Munster final before claiming his first title on the field of play in 1976.