FRED BARRY

Fred Barry
Washington High School
Boston University
Athlete of Distinction – Football

As a student at Washington High School, Fred Barry made significant contributions to the success of the football and track teams in his junior and senior years. Fred did not start playing football until his sophomore year and was used sparingly. His star began to rise during his junior and senior year, and he played an important role in the Little President football machine.

Playing both offense and defense, he was named Athlete of the Year in 1966. Fred was named to the All-City and All-League teams, and was Honorable Mention All-State. As a member of the track team, he performed at record holder status in the 180 low hurdles.

Barry joined the Boston University Terrier football and track programs and gained success in both, but football was to dominate. He was a three-year letterman from 1967-1969, playing safety and cornerback. He led the 1968 team with five interceptions and returned one for a touchdown. Fred was considered a lethal tackler and a definite pro prospect. During his senior year, he was named first team All New England by UPI and second team All New England by the AP.

Drafted by the Kansas City Chiefs in the ninth round of the 1970 NFL draft, Fred, 5’10 and 183 lb., impressed Coach Hank Stram with his ability to cover huge portions of the defensive turf with his 4.5 speed in the 40 yard dash. Despite his desire, great hands, and a basic love of contact on the football field, he was the last player cut by the Chiefs, and he didn’t make the final roster.

A week later Fred signed as a free agent with the Pittsburgh Steelers, playing two seasons as a backup cornerback and a special teams player.

Today, Fred works as a human resource professional in the Los Angeles area.