 Barry came to prominence as a hurler with the North Monastery, while simultaneously lining out at underage levels with the St. Vincent's club.He was just 15-years-old when he was drafted onto the club's minor team in 1957 and enjoyed his first success that year when St. Vincent's defeated Cú Chulainn's to claim the minor championship title.Barry played in the half-forward line until 1959 when he was persuaded to take over the goalkeeping position.