 Tracey started his professional career at Sheffield United in 1997.On 5 March 1998 he moved to Rotherham United, where he made one start and four substitute appearances before joining Carlisle United, initially on loan, on 12 March 1999.Tracey appeared in the famous Jimmy Glass game against Plymouth Argyle, in which the goalkeeper scored in the 94th minute to keep Carlisle United in The Football League.