Cork born, educated first in Boher Bui Comprehensive and then Newbridge College where he played lock on the Senior side for two Cup campaigns reaching the Leinster Senior Cup semi final in 1999. Buckley represented Leinster Schools, and went on to win AIB League medals with Shannon.

He made his provincial bow with Munster in 2005 and has understudied John Hayes for the past two seasons.

Tony was called into the extended training squad in 2007 and made his International debut on Ireland's summer 2007 tour to Argentina.