While studying at West Virginia University from 1998–2001, Barnes played for the university's women's soccer team, starting in every game during her tenure.[3]
In 2000, the team played in the National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) tournament for the first time.[3] At the end of the season, Barnes beat records for goals scored (17), assists (9), and total points (43).[3] Her senior year, Barnes received various accolades, including being selected for the First Team All-Big East Conference, NSCAA/adidas Mid-Atlantic Region first team, and Soccer Buzz First Team Mid-Atlantic Region member.[3] She received All-American honors from NSCAA/adidas and National Strength and Conditioning, and was also honored with the Fred Schaus Captain's Award for demonstrating her pivotal role on the team both on and off the field.[3] Upon graduation in 2002, she held or shared 17 university records.[4]
Barnes was also a member of the United States women's national under-21 soccer team, where she helped win three Nordic Cups.[3]
In 2002, Barnes was selected in the second round of the Women's United Soccer Association (WUSA) draft to play for the Carolina Courage.[3][5] That year, the Courage won the 2002 WUSA Founders Cup.[3][4] The following year, Barnes transferred to play for the San Jose CyberRays,[5][6] and was nominated to play in the WUSA All-Star Game.[4] WUSA folded after the 2003 season.
Barnes also played in the United Soccer League for the Cincinnati Ladyhawks.[3]
In 2004, Barnes joined the University of Alabama as an assistant coach,[2][4] a position she held four seasons.[3]
After coaching at the University of Alabama, Barnes moved back to Mason, Ohio to begin a career in law enforcement, starting with a position as a corrections officer. As of 2012, she was a deputy sheriff with the Warren County Sheriff’s Office.[3] In 2016, she received a potentially fatal gunshot wound, though she survived the attack.[2]