Get to Know Our Guest Speaker: Michael Salisbury

We are thrilled to announce that for our next meeting on Thursday February 19th, Bury & Rochdale RA will host a referee who operates at the very pinnacle of the English game: Select Group 1 Match Official Michael Salisbury.

Whether you are a trainee just starting your journey or a seasoned veteran of the local leagues, this is an evening you won't want to miss.

The Journey to the Top

Michael’s rise through the pyramid is a masterclass in persistence and performance. Hailing from a refereeing family (his father, Graham, was a long-standing and well-respected EFL official), Michael has carved out his own elite path:

2016: Promoted to the EFL National Panel.

2020: Promoted to Select Group 2 (Championship).

2021: Appointed to the Select Group 1 list, the elite tier of referees officiating in the Premier League.

Since his debut in the top flight, Michael has been involved in some of the biggest fixtures in world football, balancing the intense pressure of the Premier League with the technical precision required in the VAR hub at Stockley Park.

What to Expect on the Night

Michael isn't just there to tell stories; he’s there to help us improve. He’ll be sharing insights into:

• Michael will deliver a topic which is to be confirmed which will offer supreme development opportunities lasting approximately 40 minutes.

• Michael will also host a 20-minute Q&A session post-presentation.

Have Your Questions Ready!

We will be concluding the evening with an exclusive Q&A session. This is your chance to ask those questions. Want to know what was said during a specific VAR check? Curious about how he handles world-class players (and managers)? Or want to know how he keeps his fitness at elite levels?

Nothing is off-limits - so come prepared!

The Details:

When: Thursday February 19th

Where: St Mary's Social Club, Pine St, Radcliffe, M26 2WQ

Time: Doors open at 19:00 | Meeting starts at 19:30

Let’s give Michael a massive welcome. See you all there!