True or False: Only a player on the field at the time of the infraction can take a penalty kick.

The statement that only a player on the field at the time of the infraction can take a penalty kick is indeed true. According to the Laws of the Game, when a foul that results in a penalty kick occurs, only players who are actively participating in the match at that moment are eligible to take the kick. This means that if a player was substituted out or not on the field at the time of the infraction, they cannot take the penalty kick, regardless of their position or status on the roster.

This rule emphasizes the significance of the situation—penalty kicks are direct opportunities to score, thus maintaining the integrity of the game by restricting it to players engaged in the match is essential. Players who were not on the field when the foul occurred are not permitted to enter the field to take a penalty kick, further highlighting the importance of participation at the moment of the foul.