The New York Islanders announced Wednesday the appointment of defenseman Mark Streit as the 13th captain in the organization’s 40-year history.

Streit, 33, entering his fourth season with the Islanders, missed the entire 2010-11 campaign with a shoulder injury, but in his first two seasons with the club led all Islanders in ice-time. He also led the team in scoring during the 2008-09 season, while ranking third in that category the following year.

The Bern, SUI, native becomes the first team captain in National Hockey League history from Switzerland.

“It’s truly an honor to be named the captain of such a historic franchise with a rich history,” Streit said in a statement. “To follow in the foot-steps of so many legendary leaders that represented the Islanders is a role I am excited to fill. It is a privilege to be considered one of the leaders of this team and I’m committed to taking this team to the next level.”