If you’ve been around for awhile you’ll remember that the first big series I did on the blog (in 2013!) was on all the nuances of rigging a boat. (You can check out all those posts here if you haven’t read them in awhile.) The first post was on spread and span and also included two videos showing how to measure both, in case you want another reference on how it’s done.
If you’re looking for a way to kill some time this winter, definitely consider asking your coach or boatman if he/she can show you how to rig a boat. It goes way beyond just putting the riggers on and taking them off and is a skill that all coxswains should learn. There’s also a tools post in that series that you should check out if you’re on the hunt for some wrenches but aren’t sure of the sizes you’ll need. (All of that stuff makes great stocking stuffers too if any parents out there are still looking for ideas!)